Things That Hold Back Your Creativity

Art Tips

Jun 19

If you know that you have creative ideas but struggle to sit down and put them to paper, there might be some things holding you back. I’ve made a little list of a few things that come to mind when I consider what has stopped me being creative in the past, and how to avoid them.

Not having a space to work

Without having a reliable space where your art materials are in reach and you feel alone with your creativity, it’s going to be hard to sit down and create magic. Have a go-to space that’s right for you and remove the distractions that aren’t helpful, and it doesn’t have to be in your home if you prefer sitting in the park or your local library.

I have a sunny little desk in my house where I can see the clouds go by out the window, look at my little plants and conjure up ideas - and that’s how I like to draw. You might like curling up on the couch with a blanket with music blaring. You might like peace and quiet, or you might enjoy people watching to spark ideas. It really doesn’t matter what your space looks like, just make sure that it works for you.

Being hard on yourself

Being critical is useful to know what it is you want to improve on, but self-doubt and negative thoughts about your skills will only stop you from creating. If you tell yourself that you’re bad at art, then you will be bad at art. And why would you keep working on something that you think you’re bad at?

Be kind to your creativity and keep reminding yourself that to find the things that work you have to try a lot of things that don’t work, and if you can do that then the art you make will be wonderful and creative.

Worrying about what others will think

If you’re worried that others will see your art and not like it, then focus on why you’re making art in the first place. Is it for you to express yourself and because you freaking love it? Then it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks because their opinion doesn’t validate what you create.

Besides, your style won’t be for everyone, but that doesn’t make it bad - it makes it yours.

Waiting for the right materials

If you’re holding on to ideas but keep putting them off because you’re waiting for that special sketchbook or fancy pencils, then you’re holding yourself back. Use what you have and work on your ideas while you wait for your materials, because I can guarantee you that when you do finally get your special sketchbook your ideas will be all the better if you’ve already been experimenting.

Feeling intimidated

I get it, a big blank page in a sketchbook can be intimidating. So can looking at incredibly experienced artists and knowing you’re not at that level yet. But feeling intimidated doesn’t leave much room for creativity, so I suggest finding a way to move past it before it stops you from creating at all.

Scribble out some loose ideas on a scrap piece of paper before tackling the blank sketchbook if it helps, or try not comparing yourself to someone who’s been creating art for much longer than you. Try not to be afraid of colour and new materials, and remember, nobody even has to see what you’re making if you really aren’t happy with it! It can be your little secret ;)

There are loads more things that can hold back your creativity if you let them, but hopefully tackling these will help make it that little bit easier to sit down and let loose with some paints and pencils. Go and create some magic, and get in touch if you’ve found these tips helpful!