Well, it happened…
I’ve got it. It might be contagious, and I’m almost afraid to admit it out loud.
Yep—I have the dreaded Creative Block. Writer’s block, painter’s block… whatever you want to call it. And the weirdest part? I haven’t felt this way since relocating from California to North Carolina. I’ve had plenty to distract me—unpacking, organizing, running a business, LIVE demos, Your Artful Journey classes, and launching this new segment called Tracy’s Toolbox. But despite all that, it hit me.
I’ve been overflowing with creativity for months. All I’ve wanted to do is paint. But as we all know, even the most inspired artist can hit a wall. And now it’s time to dig my way out. Because here’s the thing:
The only way around creative block is through it.
So what do I do when I hit a creative block?
Here are my go-to “prescriptions” when I feel stuck:
1. I Write.
When I’m not painting, writing is my next favorite creative outlet. That’s exactly what I’m doing right now—talking to you. Writing helps me process, reflect, and often leads me right back to the art table.
2. I Take Pictures.
I walk, wander, and capture everything that catches my eye. North Carolina is full of inspiration—from blooming flowers to quiet sunrises. Sometimes just reviewing those photos can spark a new idea.
3. I Clean and Organize.
Not glamorous, but incredibly effective. I become a full-on organization fool. Rearranging my studio gives me space to breathe and reminds me of the supplies I want to play with.
4. I Change My Environment.
Today I’m writing this from my back porch. The breeze, the birds… it’s peaceful and just different enough to reset my mind.
5. I Unplug and Get Away.
Sometimes you just need a break. This week, I took a much-needed day trip to the beach. Having lived in California for 28 years, I often escaped to the Pacific Ocean. This time, it was the Atlantic—and it worked its magic. I didn’t answer emails. I got my dose of Vitamin Sea and walked barefoot in the sand. It wasn’t long, but it was everything I needed.
6. I Paint Something Different.
Tonight, I painted fruit. No expectations, just fun. It got me out of my head and back into the moment. When the pressure’s off, the joy returns.
7. I Take Myself on a Creative Date.
Just me, my art journal, and a change of scenery. Sometimes it’s a trip to the art store, a long walk, or even a visit to the library. Anything that nurtures my creative spirit counts.
Creative block happens to all of us—yes, even when creativity is our job. When it hits, I remind myself to go easy, give myself grace, and talk about it with someone who understands. That’s what I did this week, and I’m so glad I did.
If you’re going through it too, consider this your permission slip: be kind to yourself and just keep going.
Now I’d love to hear from you…
What do you do when creative block hits?
Have you tried any of these tips—or do you have your own go-to solution?
Drop a comment and let me know. And if this was helpful, share it with a creative friend who might need a little reminder that they’re not alone.
✨ Creatively Yours,
Tracy