Stress is a major reason why our creativity often goes out the window. If you have ever found yourself staring at a blank page or doing everything but writing then you definitely understand what I am saying. The trick to igniting your creativity is to learn to calm your mind so the problem doesn’t escalate.

DE-STRESS AND AMP UP YOUR CREATIVITY

Get Up And Move. When you move your body produces endorphins which are all-natural “happy pills” for your body. Stand up, jump up and down, run in place for a few minutes and before you know it your stress will start melting away. Even better, go take a walk outside. 15 minutes in the fresh air will do wonders for your mental state of mind.

Have A Seat. Yes it’s the complete opposite of what I just said, but sometimes you just need to slow down. Meditate or simply close your eyes and focus on taking deep breaths (inhale for 5 counts and exhale for 5 counts).

Write Nonsense. Take the stress out of “having to” write. Grab a piece of paper and a pen (or crayon) and take 15 minutes to write whatever comes to mind. Yes it can be the same word over and over again. Let one word flow to the next and don’t stop.

Doodle. Have you ever found yourself absentmindedly doodling on a piece of paper? This is actually a way of de-stressing. You don’t need to be an artist, simply let your mind relax as you fill a piece of paper with patterns and shapes and maybe even some colours. You can think of this like cross-training for your writing brain.

Set A Time. If you are always waiting for the muse to hit then there is a good chance it never will. Set aside some time every day to follow your passions (not work or chores). Even if you start by reading a book, you will soon find that great ideas begin to materialize.

Find An Inspiring Workspace. Trying to work in the same place all the time can get boring. Don’t be afraid to change it up. Sit outside in nature, sit at a coffee shop, sit on your front steps. It doesn’t matter where you go, just shake things up.