Creativity is the fuel for musicians and artists. Creative ideas and new techniques are essential for artists. We constantly improve our skills on the instrument, learn new repertoires, and create new approaches to our craft. Edward de Bono summarizes it in this quote:
Creativity is a powerful motivator, as it inspires people to be creative. Creativity is a source of hope and inspiration. Everyone can achieve something through creativity. Creativity can make life more enjoyable and interesting.
As every artist knows, creativity can be finite. Sometimes our creativity runs dry, especially when it’s hard to find the time or are under pressure. Most of the time we are reluctant to try something new because we aren’t comfortable with our current routines.
Don’t feel stuck in a rut. There are many ways to regain your creativity. These 10 tips will help you reset your creativity.
Listen to music that you don’t normally listen to
Sometimes creativity requires a new perspective. Listening to new music can help you get out of a rut and bring your creativity back to life. Listening to music in an open and honest way can increase creativity and lead to new ideas.
It is very helpful to discover new music. Even though it may not always be your favorite music, it can help you access new emotions and ideas. You might notice a different pace, musical phrasing, or chord progression. These things should be taken into consideration and given some thought.
Everyone has their favorite songs. But if this is all you have, then you won’t be trying anything new. You can try a new song without judgment.
Try something different
Listening to different music genres is only the beginning. A new approach to creating music will help.
Musicians are always learning. It’s a great way to keep your energy high and incite new ideas. This will change your workflow and help you to get rid of the repetitive behaviors that have become your default DAW.
There are many online resources available that can assist you. YouTube is a great place to start if you’re looking for step-by-step guidance on everything from music composition to performing.
Challenge yourself
You will be pushed to the limit by a little music challenge. It will also be super fun! Here are some suggestions:
Create a cover song. Choose a song that you like and create a cover. You’ll gain great ideas and useful information about songwriting as well as production. These insights will help you when creating a new song.
You can create a song in just one hour. You will be forced to create a song within a given time limit. Set a time limit for your next session and apply pressure on yourself. This challenge will not only help you make a song but also reveal areas for improvement. You’ll be more motivated, and that is ideal.
Get moving!
We understand what you are thinking. These recommendations “won’t matter” or “won’t work” because you “I’m stuck”, so that’s it. However, the more resistance you have, the more reason you should leave the home.
It doesn’t take too much to enjoy it! Get your blood flowing, take in nature, and have fun with other people. These activities will stimulate your senses and change your outlook.
Endorphins will make you feel happy, which can lead to a feeling of well-being.
Jam with friends
To break out of a creative rut, nothing beats working alongside a partner. It is a great way to get your creativity going again.
Invite another person to join you if your creative process seems slow. You can collaborate with another musician by going to their studio or practice area. You can spark your imagination by visiting a guitarist, singer, bongo player, or any other person who can change the tone of the session.
You’ll also get a change in scenery. It’s like shooting two birds. Here are some ideas for collabs:
Enjoy new art forms and other experiences that will take you to another world
It is believed that our experiences have an impact on everything we believe and do. Art imitates life, and life imitates art.
We urge you to do something completely new in light of this: talk with someone new, browse a photography website, or visit a new artistic space like a gallery. Let other people’s artwork influence your work and blend into it. This is a great way to inject new creativity into your work.
You can block time to be creative
Although you may have a busy schedule, it is important to set aside time for inspiration. It doesn’t really matter how much time you have, just that you are able to commit to it.
Although it doesn’t sound very romantic, you will be pleasantly surprised at the results. Take this example from W. Somerset Maugham:
Inspiration strikes me only. It strikes me every morning at 9 o’clock.
This block of time is your chance to do things that are inspiring, such as listening to new music, exploring new art forms, and jamming out with friends.
Do not put too much pressure on yourself
Pushing your music too hard will only make it less fun, as with all creative endeavors. The more you listen to it, the more your brain will be fried.
It’s not worth it if you don’t enjoy creating art. You would feel overwhelmed by the pressure to create award-winning or groundbreaking songs. This would make it difficult to experiment and be creative.
Be aware of the pressure that you feel the next time you compose a song. You can take slow, deep, but not too serious, breaths.
Recognize the wealth of creativity you possess
Do you remember when people used to say some artists were just “more creative than others?” That’s false. Everybody, especially you, has a treasure trove of creative energy just waiting to be tapped.
Your mind will open up to new possibilities when you realize that you are creative even though you don’t feel it right now.
Recall a time you solved an impossible problem or convinced someone to see the same thing as you. This is definitely creativity! It is possible to increase your artistic ability by acknowledging that you are naturally creative.
There is no one solution to staying creative. Keep trying out these ideas to find the best ones for you. You should take the time to create new routines. Focus on one thing at a time.
A complete creative reset is not possible overnight. To improve your creativity, focus on simple tasks that you can do right away.