Mar 18, 2019
Creative block is a thing, but it doesn't have to be. In this
episode, I share the one tactic for overcoming creative block
practiced by most music artists I've interviewed for this podcast.
I also share tips for getting out of your own head, which can help
you get out of your own way.
I spoke with two indie artists earlier this week, each w ith unique
situation. Both are on the cusp of big projects. Both want to move
their careers forward. Both face obstacles.
Their challenges are slightly different, but in both cases–their
standing in their own way. It's a common dilemma. I do it all the
time. These conversations reminded me of the following.
Getting Out of Your Own
Head
In the case of my two indie artist friends, accountability would be
a huge help. Great places to find accountability are through
coaching, mastermind groups, and songwriting groups. Each of these
offers a slightly different approach to accountability, but all
three offer an opportunity to get out of your own head. This
naturally happens by virtue of interaction with peers and in some
cases mentors. Adding accountability to the mix can also help
establish, fine tune and achieve your career goals.
Sometimes the only thing needed to get out of our own head is human
contact. Depending on your situation, volunteering for another
artist that inspires you might be the solution.
Hear how Jana Pochop did exactly this to propel her own career and side-hustle as a social media consultant for musicians. Click here to listen to our conversation on the podcast.
Or maybe all you need is to attend or host an open mic or pro
jam. These are fantastic places to connect with people who can help
and inspire you. Maybe a songwriting group is your thing.
Songwriting groups not only motivate and provide accountability,
but they can help you develop some needed discipline. This takes me
to my next point.
Creativity and Discipline
Also inspired by the aforementioned calls, creative writers block
and creative procrastination. If you’re not feeling inspired, stop
waiting to feel inspired. Waiting for inspiration is
procrastination at its finest. Instead, be proactive. Set an
appointment with yourself to write. This is exactly what artists
like Shannon Curtis and Lynz Crichton do. Make an appointment to
write something crappy. It’s the only way you’ll every write
anything good. Ten good pages for every one good one, right. Use a
notepad or your phones voice memo app for moments of
inspiration.
A Daily Writing Practice
Make a daily routine of object writing every morning. Do this
before you look at your devices, before you check your social media
or email. Put pen to paper and write something free form for 10 to
20 minutes. Set a timer and don’t edit yourself. Pete and Crystal
Damore of Ordinary Elephant turned me on to object writing. Read
about it here, and listen to my conversation with the Damore's
here. Pete and Crystal also talk about songwriting workshops.
Here's a video explanation of object writing by Sarah Crookall.
If you’re interested in or need a little help getting started with a mastermind group, songwriting group, or coaching, contact me. I'm willing and able to provide you with useful guidance.
Show notes and related episodes at UnstarvingMusician.com.