Writer's block: truth or myth
Writer's block is something that probably every artist faces at least occasionally. While some pompously claim, “it’s all in your head”, not everyone experiences this the same way or struggles with it in an equal manner. One thing is for sure: someone who claims to have never faced this problem is very likely not telling the truth.
From my perspective, unfortunately, I have to say that I’m currently suffering from writer's block. Although this usually implies difficulty in finding new ideas and motivation, it can also mean a problem with finishing what has already been started. Anyway, a big frustration for anyone involved in creative work. The only consolation, to some extent, lies in the realization that this is a transient state, although it can last for some time.
To finally put an end to the creative blockade, you must know yourself well before anything else. As I have already written, each person is different in this regard. For example, some will say: “You should set a deadline”, even when there is objectively none. I agree that trying to organize time is never a bad thing, but I am not one of those who can be motivated by any kind of coercion, even when it is inevitable. Instead, I try to step away from creative work a bit and temporarily occupy my thoughts with something else that pleases me. Most often with activities like reading, listening to music, watching movies, being in nature, etc. Sometimes, even daily chores like housework and gardening help me. Regular physical activity is certainly of utmost importance, and good health is a basic condition for any quality work.
Speaking of which, I have been actively doing fitness for ten years now. I don’t have to stress out about the invaluable benefits that such a commitment brings. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, going to the gym seems like an unnecessary risk to me for the time being. Fortunately, I have the alternatives described above. :)
It is good to have several different creative interests. Although music is my primary activity, I have always been prone to the visual arts as well, especially photography and graphic design. It is a happy circumstance in any case, as I often need these skills in connection with my musical work. At the same time, there is undoubtedly a delicate connection between sound and image. These areas often complement each other or inspire both directions.
Unfortunately, sometimes nothing helps, especially when you temporarily suffer from a health problem or you are like me, a "human barometer", so the climate (or human) environment most often does not suit you. In such periods, it is best to indulge exclusively in what suits you best at that moment and hope that the problems will disappear as soon as possible. Like the writer's block itself. ;)