Creative Roadblock: Tips from Our Creative Director

Have you ever had a creative roadblock? How about having one in the middle of completing a task? It sucks, don’t it?! As creative as we are, you would think that we would find ways to snap back quickly, but that does not always happen. In my experience, having such a creative background in both dance and fashion, your creativity can sometimes drain you. However, there are some strategies that can help you slide back into your creative zone, and I have a few tips for you.

TAKE A BREAK!

Yeah, I know you are working so hard, but take a break! Breaks are always needed to regroup yourself. When I am dancing and coming up with new choreography, I typically change the song or go for a ride. I won’t lie to you all, some of my best choreography come from sitting behind the wheel and driving. (Don’t ask because I can’t explain it. It’s just a dancer thing lol). The break is needed sometimes to take your creativity to the next level. Find that positive activity that will regroup you whether it is getting a bite to eat, reading a book (my new favorite thing to do) or simply watching a movie. It will declutter your thoughts and help clear your creative path. If you are in school and a roadblock happens, ask your teacher if it is ok to take a restroom break. It will truly help!

MUSIC INSPIRES

“Come on baby light my fire. Everything you drop is so tired. Music is supposed to inspire. So how come we ain’t getting no higher...”- Lauryn Hill.

Music is supposed to inspire you and it changes your spirit too. When I am stuck and planning out an entire show, I will play music to clear my mind. One of my favorite songs right now is Shades by Twelve ft Naama. It talks about the beauty of my brown skin tone and how it’s just like the Most High who dwells in heaven. This song puts me back into the best mood and settles my chaotic mind of creativity.  When you hit that roadblock in your creativity, listen to music that inspires you and uplifts you. It will take you to another level and unblock that blockage. Remember creativity will drain you, so you must replenish.  

CLEAN UP!

Now, I know you are probably looking crossed-eyed, but cleaning does more than physically straighten up your space. It clears your mind, your spirit, and your soul too. When I was working for a lifestyle brand, people thought it was simple to put trendy outfit inspirations together and prepare the items for a fashion shoot. Let’s say about 30 looks! Well, let me tell you this, it’s fun, but frustration comes with things you like to do too. And when I got frustrated, my workspace was unorganized (which I hate!). If you are anything like me, my space is an example of my creativity level for the day. So, declutter and release that blockage. This works when I am dancing too.

Creative blockage will happen to all of us, and frustration is bound to happen. But don’t let it get to you! It just means you need to declutter your thoughts. The mind can be a dangerous thing, so sort it out. Every good idea comes from the Most High, but just like life, creativity will come with trials, errors, , roadblock and so much more. And even with those blockages, there’s a blueprint that will lead you to success! You got this!