In this episode we talk about how to overcome creative block. If you’ve ever been stuck in a design rut, you know how frustrating this can be! We discuss how it’s something every designer goes through, and look at some effective ways to get your inspiration back.

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Show Notes for This Episode:

[1.00] Creative block is the worst thing for designers!
[1.45] What Ian does to overcome creative block (it starts with food!)
[2.30] Learning a new skill can be really effective
[3.20] With creative block it can be like hitting a wall you can’t get past
[4.20] Ian finds inspiration in the last minute
[5.00] Every designer in the world goes through this
[5.30] Lisa goes further down the hole of creative block, and forgets to step back
[6.10] Coming back to a piece and seeing it in a new positive light
[6.45] Our brains trick us
[7.15] Negative stuff in our day can mount up and cause creative block
[8.00] Avoiding negativity at the start of your day, to hit the ground running
[9.00] Being aware of what causes each of your mental states
[10.20] Lisa’s routine for setting herself up to create
[11.40] Going down the rabbit-hole of negativity
[12.20] Comparing yourself to others can kill your creativity
[13.15] The response to seeing other people’s work that is ‘better’ than yours
[14.30] Lisa puts a time limit on looking at other’s work
[15.30] Ian feeling discouraging by other people’s work
[17.00] Adjusting your work around your mindset (get something done, despite a creative block)
[18.00] The need for originality causing the block
[19.25] David Bowie’s approach for writing lyrics
[20.00] Getting away from your desk
[20.30] Dustin gets angry! (you wouldn’t like him when he’s angry!)
[21.00] Lisa also feels infuriated in this state
[21.50] Lisa’s epic humble brag
[23.20] Often you can compete against your own best work
[24.30] Ian’s example of a post gone viral, and feeling like he can’t top this
[27.45] It’s messed up that even our successes can feel like a hurdle to overcome
[28.50] Try living in the moment when you’re feeling inspired
[31.30] Closing tips/thoughts


“A must for every creative freelancer (or those aspiring to freelance). Thank you for being so… honest! Such a wealth of information from people I admire who have ‘been there and done that’. Listening to the podcast every week feels like I’m among friends. Can’t wait for more episodes!” – AG_GD