How to beat Creative Block

How to beat Creative Block - 5 Simple Tips //
So I worked out that creative block happens for me when my conscious mind falls out of sync with my intuition. What I mean by this is that when I’m creating something, my intuition (or my subconscious mind) is coming up with ideas and my conscious mind is forming it into something coherent.
But when I get into a creative rut, it’s like my subconscious mind’s engine has stalled and my conscious mind is left trying to run things. But the problem with this is my conscious mind can only see what it can immediately access and that can both impact my creativity and my motivation.
Luckily I managed to get out of this thinking trap and I’ve formulated a list of 5 things to help keep your mind thinking creatively.
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[@cleome__]

“Trust your mind because it’s more clever than you” - JW Love this

[@jamiewindsor]

Ha. I wasn't sure whether that was a clever line or utter nonsense, so I'm glad you appreciated it.

[@JoseHerrerawl]

If only I could tell my past self this!

[@kyrlics6515]

@@B_-.- same.

[@LauradeVasconcelos]

@@jamiewindsor i guess u wanted to say: trust your heart/feelings bc it's more clever than your mind... intuition inspiration art come from the heart! love your vids thank u

[@photobech]

I fully understand the feeling of losing creativity. After 25 years in photography, 3 years ago I left commercial photography, sold my studio, etc. Now I'm going back to the beginning, when photography was a hobby, but now with experience. Discovering my creative side again.

[@jamiewindsor]

Sounds like a great thing. It's sometimes good to press that reset button and find that passion that started it all again.

[@leizelmalaubi2773]

oooh it's so nice to know that there are people who is experiencing this kind of feelings, i want to restart again as a hobbyist which i enjoyed very much from the beginning

[@sethdickson1_]

The most inspiring photographer on whole KZbin 👌🏾🔥

[@boriskuznetsov9900]

true

[@wojtekscibor]

inspiring and professional

[@wreccscestina5392]

Him and sean tucker!

[@srdjanradulovic13]

Agree 100%

[@jockturner1547]

Jamie Windsor and Sean Tucker are absolute KZbin gold

[@moduleheadindependentcreat8158]

"Sometimes you need that permission from someone..." Truer words.

[@Hugh.devereuxmack]

Can we take a moment to replay the opening sounds a couple of time. That was intensely satisfying.

[@ally679]

I'm a beginner photographer and I find your videos incredibly inspiring, informative, encouraging, and enjoyable.

[@jamiewindsor]

Thank you. I'm glad you find them helpful.

[@judyofthewoods]

One of the things I find when talking to people is that you can bounce off ideas and refine them in the process. By putting things into words you understand it better yourself, bringing the subconscious to the surface.

[@kilobitti]

Seriously. These videos about creativity, art and photography as the act and not the gear are youtube as its finest. Thank you.

[@alexnaq]

"Thinks less, do more" - is actually a decent statement. Being a beginner first weeks when I got my camera were the most exciting, I wasn't thinking or knowing about composition and stuff, just learned technical sides of my camera and went shooting everything I could find. It was all about intuition rather than thinking. But as I learn more and more about photography, I leave my intuition behind and start to think instead, what will work and what not. This really feels wrong to me, better take a shot based on intuition and see if it was any good, rather than think it won't be a good shot and potentially miss a great shot.

[@seanbirtwistle649]

nothing wrong with thinking about what will work and what wont. its more about when you do that thinking. its a lot more productive to think about it before or after a shoot than to try on the fly; it gets in the way of work flow, creative flow, segments everything up instead of consolidating complexities. if theres no second chance with a shot, plan ahead. if you have the time, use it. when im stuck in a rut i go out and shoot everything the best i can; lots of crappy photos i have no attachment to. but its that freedom from my own expectations that elevates me from being my own critic and enjoying the work. remember every photo has a place, some in print on a wall, some shared on social media, some in the bin, but all worth something to each other in their own hierarchy

[@shawncurry4534]

“Analysis paralysis” is something I suffer from when my photography stagnates. Thanks for helping flesh out what to do, but not think too hard about, to remedy it.

[@e.conwaybryansr.8626]

Instructive, inspiring and it works. I ran into a creative block on a particular project and decided to go for a 1-hr drive with no pre-determined destination. I just drove on the highway until I wanted to stop. When I returned home, the mental pressure to produce had subsided and I had new insights. Well done. Peace, my Brother. 🎯

[@NigelDanson]

Awesome video Jamie - I really enjoyed this and a difficult concept put across so eloquently. Keep up the great work.

[@wagnerjacobson622]

That B-roll in the beginning was AWESOME! I love your content. Inspiring as always

[@aguy4247]

Couldn't be more perfectly timed with this video, Jamie. I work as a music photographer for a touring metal band, and we're 31 days into a tour right now and the past couple days I've been having a really hard time (Like I do every tour). I was just telling a friend yesterday how I feel like i've ran straight into a wall and don't know what else to shoot. I unfortunately can't take a break or go somewhere different in this situation, but the "stop trying" and "stop worrying" part of that point is still on the money. Last night I decided to just stop thinking about it and just kinda shoot mindlessly and it actually yielded a better portfolio of the show than the previous show. I started shooting with no ideas or expectations or care if I got a single usable photo for the night, ended up with more than the previous two shows where i had been overthinking and dwelling on the wall I had hit. Thanks for the video to remind me I'm not the only one who this happens to, and reinforcing that I'm handling it okay.

[@jimwlouavl]

Your idea about the subconscious mind getting out of sync makes so much sense. And your five tips are great.

[@gmu6081]

You are one of a kind. Keep creating more. I dont get tired of your videos

[@davidjones8070]

It’s a very freeing experience if you go out with zero expectations... try just observing and don’t expect any results. As a life long creative when I get stuck I purposely look elsewhere for ideas. Learn to look more and get out of your own way. I’ve also learned to keep my phone or a piece of paper close by because inspiration for me has come when I’m in bed in the middle of the night when my thoughts from the day have slowed. Sorry for the long winded response but a lot of what you say hits home and really needs to be said. Great job..keep up the good work.

[@zackbulatao]

I needed to see this. Been stuck in a creative dry spell for days now and i just can't see any subject worth taking photos of. I'm going to go out and walk on a different route and a change of scenery. Thank you for these tips!

[@agylub]

Isaac Bulatao ride a bike. You’ll carry less gear, travel further and quieter and be able to go where a car can’t. Ride in the early morning for the air and light.

[@adams.555]

Another valuable video . There are so many Photography channels on KZbin but only few deliver hype free, honest ,simple and most importantly inspiring content. Thank you Jamie!

[@hudsoncurry2372]

This has sincerely been the best answer to this problem that I have found. I was reluctant to click on this video because I thought it was rehash all the same things other videos have covered but this was new and refreshing.

[@christinabs5636]

Thank you Jamie for being a great inspiration! "think less and do more" - this is exactly what I need to hear right now. The last few times I took my camera I came back with absolutely nothing interesting. I just did not have the right idea, could not see what I wanted to get or do. I will try to quiet my mind and just do it, without thinking it over and over again and not doing anything.....

[@FilmAshton]

Love the mark Twain quote about doing stuff instead of regretting talking yourself out of it! Lovey ideas!

[@GoranSlika]

Awesome, your videos consistently break down concepts that I needed broken down. Good reminder to recognize a creative rut but not consciously force a way out.

[@Cartago127]

I think this channel not only teaches us how to take better photos but also how to be a more critical person

[@eifionjones8513]

Man your insights are on point. Love the cog sync. And the giving up on bad idea/wrong gear is so true. I admire the quality of thought you put into these videos.

[@AndyGoodstuff]

I love the motion graphics you've been adding into your videos recently - looks like you've been having a lot of fun on Skillshare 😂 and you didn't even need to plug it in this video! Beautiful, meaningful and inspiring content as always dude ❤️

[@thomasgunn4146]

I can't imagine anyone not liking you! You're videos are incredible! So knowledgeable, unbiased, and honest. Thank you for your time sir

[@dathofilms]

One if the best minds in todays era! You are my official mentor.

[@MacKintoshPhoto]

Just the inspiration I needed for the day. Cheers, Jamie!

[@GlenBarnett]

I'm blown away by your constant insight Jamie. You seem to hit the nail on the head constantly. Thanks!

[@andycahill2972]

100% as usual. I was on a roll posting every day, editing photos and videos every day and then all that push just vanished overnight. Luckily I was able to get away from the daily grind, I had a trip planned already and I just enjoyed myself and the creative energy just came rushing back. Love the video, Jamie!

[@anima6035]

Yeah i think the daily grind has messed me up 😭 I had a year off work and was super creative in that time, I was supposed to be resting but ended up hiking up hills and across fields night and day, shooting 2-3 times a week and editing every day. Went back to work and creative block hit me like a ton of bricks. Ugh.

[@petersolomon5227]

Jamie Windsor, thank you: you have a knack of summarising complex creative, philosophical and psychological matters in a few words. I quite agree with your assessment that creative ideas have an origin, and that without trust in one’s own instinct, imagination is thwarted. Decades ago I intuited the very thing that facilitates unique creative thinking, is the direct opposite of what is required by mercantile creative industries. Understanding this, and discovering ways to “have it both ways” would solve many artist’s agonising.

[@nerwin]

Just when I've been overthinking everything, here comes Jamie making a video about it. The universe is weird sometimes. Thanks Jamie!! I gotta quit worrying and it's okay to take a break and reset. Very inspiring!

[@chloeihr4421]

Wow I was expecting “go outside, read a book...”. This was actually helpful, thank you for this video!

[@JalenF]

My new favorite KZbinr, you are an inspiration and to someone just getting started in the realm of visual media.

[@antoninobarbaro2016]

Most effective way to break down the issue. Loved it! Great stuff Jamie

[@daleb194]

Another amazing video! Love your content, message, edits...all of it. Keep up the great stuff.

[@MILTONATOR]

I stay creative by watching every single one of you videos. Thanks man! Love your channel.

[@waynemacleod5648]

Thanks Jamie - you always have great insight into topics like this.

[@dizzybee7386]

I've wanted a Pentax 67 for years, it's on my 'bucket list' of cameras to try out. But recently I've begun to reinvest in the equipment I already have, and these videos certainly help with that. Thanks for making the connection with others!

[@owainshaw]

Thanks for making this video, Jamie. Point Two was the key one for me. I've always found that travelling somewhere - even just a little trip to a nearby town or village on the train or in the car - sees me far more inspired, and of course, my brain feels limited by the creative possibilities offered by the same walk to and from work that I do every day.

[@MCFC4TONY]

Time/effort so true. I have spent HOURS in software trying to get a picture out of something that just isn't there! Learning to walk away from something is a lesson that is hard for me. But if you can you free yourself up for the next BUG thing, or in my case the next lucky accident. Love the channel, always thoughtful and without "sales" bullsh1t!

[@JoeBananas3]

I always look forward to watching every video you produce, I always feel like I’ve learned something with each video!

[@lylestavast7652]

That's some great advice and breakdown Jamie. Thanks for it - and the sounds and image lead in was superb !

[@ayazayy]

Missed your videos, Jamie. Thank you for sharing your views. It definitely helped me understand some of the reasons behind my creative rut.

[@kaerkiu9815]

I heard a lot from people I respect (music producers) that if there is no inspiration, then you need to work your way through it, but I learned that it works way better for me when actually using similar tips that you suggested here. Going to new places, seeing and hearing more are the thing. Awesome video as always.

[@jamiewindsor]

kaerkiu Thanks. I think working through it is often the right thing to do (especially if you have clients and deadlines), but taking a break is a good way of getting some perspective if you can allow yourself to do that.

[@mynciee]

Oh Jamie you inspire me so much. I always look forward to an upload from you.

[@davekennedy9060]

Love your channel, always entertaining and educational. Thanks.

[@LightsOnMultiMediaMindArts]

Well said. I’m a hypnotherapist and I often explain to my clients that our minds are like smart phones. You have a screen filled with apps for your values, another screen for what you've learned, another screen for your emotional self, another screen for memories, a screen for arts and insights, and there’s a screen that runs the biological functions of your body and so on. Anchored at the bottom of the screen on a bar is your conscious mind. It’s only one app, but because it (mostly) makes you self-aware as Descartes notes it believes it’s all important. It’s tragically limited. While your unconscious collective can process millions of functions simultaneously, the conscious mind gets frustrated at around 5 tasks at the same time. We are almost entirely our unconscious minds. When we rely on our conscious minds too much we create limitations and problems for ourselves.

[@brett1354]

I once knew a painter who'd spent many years working at home in a cramped, messy space who finally had had enough and bit the bullet. She found and rented a storefront space. She cleared it out and made a small atelier, well-lit and for her, very spacious. And when it was all done, she couldn't work. She dutifully went to work everyday for a year without being able to work, and I mean NOTHING. I figure two things happened: first, she wasn't quite at home there yet in her head even though she'd done everything possible to make the space "hers" and more importantly, she'd spent all her creativity in making the space itself, which was lovely btw. She came out of it eventually, but creativity is fragile. Being overtired or hungry may be enough to ruin a day, but the important thing is that you can't kill creativity. The urge to make is a human imperative. Rest assured you can only put it to sleep for awhile.

[@jizhouyang1825]

Really appreciating how you're giving clear explanations and solutions to hard and abstract problems! Thank you very much for this insightful video.

[@wavyharbdul5078]

Love your page man I always get inspired when i watch your page.

[@ethanjamesrivera]

Just what I needed to hear, thank you Jamie!

[@enid2798]

woah, this video dropped on the right time!

[@mistershoot]

thanks Jamie, it's really helpful listening to your perpective and advices on this issue.

[@LindsayFoSho]

So true, especially on long projects or repetitive ones. It's always good to take that short break, that step away, and try something else for a bit.

[@davidvelasquez6965]

Great video Jamie, this topic is something I think about/process every few months it seems. I don't view a lull in creative thinking as a negative thing anymore, rather just a part of the creative process itself. When I stop creating, sharing, etc its usually been for the better. It means it's time for a new challenge or risk. Time for something new. I try to ignore the pressure of constantly creating or posting. Thanks again!

[@35effie]

This channel is a gem. Thank you so much.

[@SaraWaiFilms]

brilliant video - thank you for sharing!

[@appleshampoo324]

Interesting points. Got to admit that I'm currently experiencing such a creative block for some months now. I want to take photos but the thing is nobody wants to go out and go hike or go to a concert or whatever. Everyone just wants to stay at home. It sucks to go out on your own every single time since I'm mainly interested in shooting photos of my friends having a good time.

[@TommyCallaway]

Another thing to remember: What's familiar to you is unfamiliar to the vast majority of the world. You can make interesting work from home, sometimes it just takes a new angle or perspective, like macro, or try to find competitions. Aputure's annual light this location festival (single room short film) is a great way to get creative.

[@chiprock2692]

You continue to surprise me with the depth of your content. #5 was just what I needed to hear; as a corollary, I would say that sometimes a project needs to be shelved and reassessed after enough time has passed that the artist can look at it renewed with a different perspective that only time can provide. Great work - please keep it up...and thanks.

[@runninblue9415]

I think I'm guilty of taking for granted the quality of your content. This is what the BBC should be doing, and why people like you on medium like this are the future of creativity/entertainment. Good stuff thank you 😁

[@sabeloseptember]

Wow, I'm blown away by the value in this video. Thanks Jamie

[@FirstPersonSlayer]

Every now and then I watch your videos, and all the intros to the videos sound like an honest introduction to the Matrix or something. Packed with thoughts, full of ideas, making me kind of discover reality around me, and all this processed into a package that's inspirational and very well digestible, and when I leave these videos I feel awaken, and ready for whatever to come. I'm Neo after these. I don't know if it's just me, but well... Yeah. Thanks mate, keep up the good work! :)

[@oddhead5]

Thank you so much for creating this! I have never found such an incredible way of changing the way to think.. I'm definitely sharing this with my media channels

[@PABLOSTRONGVLOGS]

Thanks for the mention Jamie :) Great video and lots of takeaways for anyone here, whatever field you’re in.

[@vickysapienza9519]

thanks man, you have no idea how sad i'm for having a creative block and i didn't understand the reason but what you said is true and it really helps me

[@seanbirtwistle649]

do something, do anything. or specifically work on something. doesnt matter if its the same type of activity or something completely different, but the act helps you to let go of expectations. being consumed in a moment is relaxing and gives you space to get a handle on a project that couldnt get traction. sometimes you need space just to prioritise and consolidate the ideas you already have so things flow better

[@AllanWallsPhotography]

Another great video, Jamie. It's refreshing to hear such a well thought out opinion.

[@elscotitojedpa]

Thank you Jamie for this vid! I am having a really bad time with my mind overthinking and this vid reminded me stuff I forget.

[@annecalladine2870]

It just feels good listening to your words. Thank you Jamie

[@webvidpromo]

I always look forward to your latest video release and you never disappoint. Thanks Jaime.

[@aengusmacnaughton1375]

Love your videos -- more importantly, love your thinking and philosophy. Great insights -- not just for photography, but for a lot of life. Please keep these coming -- too few and far between!!!

[@maciejkucharski9184]

Excellent, visually pleasing, well recorded and filled with your personal taste. Thank you for that, Jamie. I tend to keep your videos as a kind of treat that I don't want to consume quickly or when I feel I am not having free time and free space in my head to fully appreciate your work. Your insights are valuable, brilliantly presented and they feel honest. Cheers for all of the above. :)

[@ijustfelldown]

3:42 damn. That explanation was Vsause level of entertaining and educating.

[@kimgelotte]

I've had a creative/motivational block for a couple of weeks now and after watching this video, and your Lightroom preset 3 video, I just can't wait to get home and pick up my camera and get out and snap some photos! :)

[@1502Jinx]

Couldn't have come at a better time for me Jamie. Been swimming against the tide for a couple of weeks now and beginning to drown in the mire of it all. Thank you for throwing me a rope!

[@niawesley5347]

This is exactly what I needed! Thank you for posting!

[@philfyphil]

I spent an hour yesterday waiting for an Egret to fly that was perched in a tree at my local pond. My camera was at the ready with a 400mm lens, fast (2,000) shutter speed, Servo auto tracking focus mode, high speed 6fps shutter (Canon 5D MkIII). I had been waiting so long with finger poised it ached. I must have inadvertently pressed the shutter about 20 times to fire off a total of about 80 shots. I knew I already had a good number of keepers. Then I suddenly heard a whoosh and realized a swan was taxiing for take off! I just had time to point, track and shoot, and got what I think is the best swan taking off shot I have ever taken! Photography can be both frustrating and rewarding at the same time!

[@Karlinski73]

Inspirational as per usual, Jamie. Thank you for throwing some light on those "I just can't be arsed" moments that we all have.

[@TheIronValkyrie]

Fantastic video once again Jamie, thank you. I like how you hid the reflection of the drone 👌🏻

[@gjingodjango]

“Trust your mind, it’s cleverer than you” So true and vey Taoist.

[@CreateWithZac]

I've heard some of these tips before, but this is the first video I've seen that talks about WHY. Loved "out of sync" analogy :D

[@vukturrr]

I'm always amazed seeing lots of work you do for your videos

[@KlarqueGarrison]

Great and Right on time video Jamie. Huge thanks!!!!

[@iaingeoghan2548]

Great film mate. This happens and i just have to take a break. But even more so, my friends will hit this wall and come to me asking what to do. I now tell them "try this; put the camera in the bag, get a coffee or something with a friend and watch some 'Jamie Windsor' on KZbin when you get home." Spending time with people is GOOD! I was sick to death shooting the same place, over and over. Then my friend Mel' came 'round; ended up shooting some portraits in my house for fun, and this nutjob of a model, so creative with her poses, it sparked new ideas for me and my photography.

[@awefullphotos4100]

Loving the originality and quality of your channel

[@markroffey5258]

Thanks Jamie - Needed this video.

[@supranomicon]

Brilliant, thanks so much for this!- really got me thinking- thanks Jamie

[@sumit2658]

Thank you. From deep of my heart. Thank you.

[@stefanonegroni9944]

That intro is absolutely phenomenal

[@zethiel]

Dude, I love your videos, somehow, the content and value on them just keeps getting better and better, as if it was possible...!!! Thank you, really... thank you!

[@Paul_anderson_creative]

Sweet work, great words. I travel full time in an RV, every day a different location.. Even then you CAN lose your mojo. Sometimes it is seeing different things, new places in the same way. Then I just grab my GX9 a 17mm f1.8 and just hit the streets and shoot from the hip intuitively. Works for me. Enjoy...

[@AddlerMartin]

Thanks for sharing your ideas. The first tip, for me, is the most important.

[@ynnad7778]

You are my favourite photography KZbinr. Consistent, quality content. Thank you for sharing this info, can't wait to continue being creative in my street photography, once I'm in uni.

[@JR-fw3rj]

Thank you for this video 🙏

[@ianmackenziehumber]

Well done. Love how clean your animation is and how well it fits into the entire video. Very organized, I also agree with everything said

[@budengenriquez8772]

I know it's just coincidence but your videos have been just what I need each and everytime. It's always spot-on. Truly inspiring, Jamie! Keep it up!

[@maxmac1545]

problably I've to stop "overthinking" not only while having a creative block! like your videos pretty much, thanks!