Every creative knows the up and down cycle that accompanies their work. Whether it’s your own creativity or the regularity with which you’re getting work, slow times happen. Your employment may be seasonal, and your creativity can always take a dip based on the weather, your mood, or any other number of factors. During these slower times, how do you create? Every creative wants to be able to produce quality work, even when they’re not feeling inspired or busy. In today’s blog, we explore some ways to create through the slow times.
Use Scheduling to Continue Creating During Slow Times
We’ve discussed the topic before, but one of the most effective ways to improve your own efficiency and to keep yourself on track with a project is by scheduling. Allocate a certain window of time for each activity so that you have an idea of the amount of work you’ll complete each day. This can even help you stay on course with creative projects or even creating in your free time. When you put 30 minutes to write, or draw, or read, or work on a project each day, then you’ll continue to make progress on the project.
Slow Employment Seasons Create a Chance to Work on Personal Projects
Freelancers all get nervous when the phone doesn’t ring or the emails don’t come in for a couple weeks. When your employment is variable or seasonal, you want to work as much as possible! However, use the slower employment moments or seasons in your life to work on personal projects. How can you make your own workflow more efficient when you are working? What new skills can you practice to increase your value as a contributor in the future? If you struggle to find time for yourself, a slower employment season creates an opportunity.
Take Some Time to Do Something Completely Different
When all else fails, and the creative blues hit you hard, take some time to do something completely different. If you’re trying to write and it’s just not happening, give yourself some time to read, or to paint, or to do something without a defined end goal. Giving yourself the mental break from trying so hard to produce something can actually free you up creatively. For some people, deadlines drive their productivity. When you’re trying to freely create, you may just need relief from this pressure dynamic.
Dunn Brothers Coffee Provides a Comfortable Work Space
If you need a work space that allows you to freely create, even during slow times, Dunn Brothers Coffee is here to help. Our open, bright floor plan is made for creatives and connecting with others. Plus, we’ve got an incredible selection of coffee roasts, so you can always find a brew that suits you. Learn more about our hours and availability by calling Dunn Brothers Coffee in Coralville, IA at 319-665-2020.