You’re Already Creative: Overcoming a Creative Slump as a UX/UI Designer

It’s easy to fall into a creative slump—it happens to everyone. There’s nothing worse than feeling uninspired and unmotivated when all you want to do is create.

The creative slump crept up on me many times; one of the most recent was when we were briefed about our new client, the football club Hajduk. Upon hearing that, I was almost immediately thrown into a creative rut because that was way out of my comfort zone. Instead of seeing all the possibilities that could be done in the sports sphere, I felt trapped. How did I emerge on the other side?

First, I acknowledged my discomfort. Admitting that I felt overwhelmed allowed me to confront the challenge head-on rather than shy away from it. I realized that my initial reaction was due to unfamiliarity with the sports industry, and that understanding opened the door to learning and growth.

Next, I sought inspiration from outside sources. I delved into the world of sports branding, explored successful campaigns by other football clubs, and examined the intersection of sports and design. This research phase was crucial; it provided a fresh perspective and showed me the vast creative potential within the sports sphere.

In my case, reaching out for collaboration and feedback was necessary. Discussing ideas with colleagues with different experiences and perspectives helped me break out of my creative bubble. Their insights and suggestions sparked new ideas and encouraged me to keep going.

Finally, I embraced the process and trusted my abilities. By focusing on the journey rather than the outcome, I found joy in creating again. This shift in mindset transformed my approach to the project. By the end of the project, I was proud of the outcome! What had initially seemed daunting turned into an opportunity for growth and creativity, proving that stepping out of my comfort zone was the key to overcoming my creative slump.

So remember, just because you’re in a slump doesn’t mean you’re not creative. Here are some strategies to help you jump back into your creative flow.

Take a Step Back

Rest is not only advised but necessary. It’s crucial to remember that rest isn’t a waste of time. In fact, it’s an essential part of the creative process. Taking a break allows your mind to rejuvenate, providing a fresh perspective when you return to your work. Rest can revitalize you and help you get out of a rut, making your return to creativity even more powerful.

Engage in Non-Creative Activities

Sometimes, stepping away from creativity is the best way to reignite it entirely. Engage in activities that don’t demand creative thought, like exercising, cooking, or even cleaning. These activities give your mind a break, allowing it to reset. When you return to your creative projects, you’ll often find that you have a fresh outlook and renewed energy.

Explore Different Art Forms

Don’t limit yourself to your specific field of creativity. If you’re a UX/UI or graphic designer, try exploring children’s literature, magazines, newspapers, or any kind of illustrated books. Immersing yourself in different types of art can spark new ideas and inspiration. Creativity isn’t confined to one medium—exposure to various art forms can help stimulate your creative juices.

Immerse Yourself in Nature

Our modern lives often involve staring at screens for extended periods. Taking time to immerse yourself in nature can be a great relief for your eyes and brain. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike in the mountains, or simply sitting in your garden, nature has a way of calming the mind and providing inspiration. Letting your mind wander while surrounded by natural beauty can lead to unexpected creative insights.

Let Go of Perfectionism

Perfectionism can be a significant barrier to creativity and growth. Remember Parkinson’s Law: the idea that work expands to fill the time allotted for its completion. If you’re a perfectionist, you might find yourself never finishing a project because it’s never “good enough.” Give yourself a reasonable amount of time to complete a task, then move on. Your skills will improve more if you work on various projects rather than obsessing over a single one.

Seek Discomfort

Growth often comes from stepping out of your comfort zone. Embrace discomfort and try new things—it can broaden your perspective and enhance your creativity. Whether it’s experimenting with a new medium, tackling a challenging project, or learning a new skill, pushing your boundaries can lead to creative breakthroughs.

Reduce Mental Distractions

When working on a new project, it’s easy for your mind to wander. If you find it difficult to focus, try writing down what distracts you. Keep a journal to jot down these thoughts and address them later. By clearing your mind of these distractions, you can focus more intently on your creative work.

Overcome Fear and Embarrassment

Fear of judgment can stifle creativity. If you have a great idea but fear what others might think, remember that experiencing discomfort or embarrassment is often better than regretting not pursuing your idea. Take risks and put your work out there—you’ll grow more from the experience, regardless of the outcome.

You’re Already Creative

Remember, you’re already creative. A slump is just a temporary phase, not a reflection of your abilities. By taking deliberate steps to refresh your mind, explore new avenues, and overcome internal barriers, you can reignite your creative spark. Embrace the journey, and trust that your creativity will flow once again.