I write a lot about the positives of creative habits: They make life more productive and meaningful, and the work is just a byproduct of that time. But sometimes… you get stuck. I’m no doctor, but I understand that over-consumption of too much media is not conducive to creativity or contentment.
1. Consumption breeds comparison.
It’s never been easier to find how others are creating. While more online environments for creativity exist, not all are fruitful or intended for inspiration. Take a look at Instagram: a simple hashtag of #creativity breeds 14,555,000+ results (at time of writing, 06/23/19). The longer you scroll, the deeper you go down the rabbit hole. How do you feel after a few minutes of creeping? I initially feel delight, then that often turns sour. It’s why I’ve chosen to only regularly use Instagram for personal use.
Some tips: First, ask yourself, am I actively using this search or am I sucking time away? Perhaps specify your search. Take notes on why you like an artist… maybe direct message them. Consider following yours truly, along with Andrea of Field Day Nature, for a daily dose of intentional creativity on Instagram at @Inspiration_System. Naturally, we’re taking over #inspirationsystem with our musings and projects.
2. Over-consumption can disrupt the creative process.
So many artists are doing fantastic things. Youtube and Instagram are great places to learn. It’s how I “taught myself” new film angles, collage techniques, and wannabe minimalist home decor. But the longer I spend on these and other platforms, the more I get jealous or confused by my own progress. I don’t have time to make my own rug. And not all minimalists want cacti (why is that a thing?). But instead of respecting how far I’ve come or actually working on my own creative project, I can’t help but watch.
Some tips: Say no to Youtube’s autoplay. While it’s a fantastic feature when doing mindless must-dos like the dishes and laundry, its algorithm creates results you may have considered, but you did not have control over (according to Youtube, you’re data). Plus, by turning off this feature, you learn how much time was spent watching or listening. Another tip: By stopping the autoplay, it’s easier to give yourself a time limit. That way, you go back to what you’re actually working on, hopefully creating. Try to not check your phone, first thing in the morning.
3. Trust yourself to create.
Life is busy: I work full time, write weekly here, create projects every week and share the process every other day on Instagram for @Inspiration_System, go to the gym every weekday, and volunteer at least once a month. I love it: This busyness is part of who I am. I embrace those times and titles. If I’m consuming media instead of creating, I lose sight of what makes me, me: A creative busy bee. My first independent project for the Instagram page was a collaged chair, and I had to give myself an evening to work on it, but I’m glad I did. I couldn’t simply believe I could, I had to do it.
Some tips: If you’re still struggling to create, it’s time to give yourself time. Maybe bust out the old journals to see how younger you felt about life. Will you be inspired by those former joys and frustrations? Chances are, Past You had some idea of what s/he thought Present You could be. Use Past You as inspiration. As a result of these journals, I often write lists of what’s important and urgent in my life now, so I can sort through all the obligations and stressors to see what’s blocking me. Even this seemingly objective list helps because at least I am contextualizing everything by writing it down. I don’t share on social media.
Social media are tools for creatives to express themselves, show their work, and get almost instantaneous feedback. But it’s not always the best source when you’re not ready to share your process or even start creating. It’s okay to take digital breaks if it helps you stop passively consuming. How do you feel after using social media? Do you use it to promote your work? What social media platform(s) do you prefer? Let me know in the comments!