Breaking Free From A Rut

February 28, 2009

It happens to everyone in all walks of life. You wake up one morning and discover that you are officially in a rut; unable to decide which direction you are going to go or what you want to do next. While this can be frustrating for any person it can be downright detrimental to a person whose livelihood depends on creative and fresh ideas. If you find yourself in a rut with no idea where to turn take heart in knowing that you are not alone and there are ways to break the cycle and get things back on track.

Take a break- This may be especially difficult for self employed individuals who rely on their creative genius to pay the bills, however experts agree when you get to the point where being productive is a daily struggle it’s time to take a break. Ideally you would be able to take some time off for a short vacation but you don’t have to actually “go away” to get a break. Step away from your work and spend time on other projects that you may have been neglecting. The break from the same-old-same-old will give your mind a chance to rest and rejuvenate.

Get physical- Many freelance jobs require heavy amounts of thinking without heavy amount of lifting. When you have a job that daily takes a toll on your mind you sometimes fail to remember the importance of daily exercise. It is imperative for your physical, emotional and creative health to make sure you make time each day for physical exercise. Consider taking a walk each morning before you settle down to create or perhaps a mid-day trip to the gym can get your blood flowing? Research has proven that people in good physical health feel better about themselves and are better able to focus on other goals.

Shake things up- Find new inspiration by looking outside your day to day activities. Most freelancers enjoy the benefit of making a living doing something they love, however if you have lost your passion it may be time to look outside what you are currently doing. If you are a freelance writer focusing on a specific niche, consider writing about something you don’t normally cover. Artists can switch to a different medium to spice things up a bit. Finding something within your industry that is not what you normally do each day can help break up the monotony of your day.

Change your scenery- Sometimes getting out of a rut can be as simple as changing your scenery. If your work is mobile, consider going to a friends house for a day or working outside if the weather is agreeable. Working in the same space day after day can drain even the most creative person, so get up and get moving to a place that can get your mind running.

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