Over busy assessment periods, it can be difficult to stay creative and focused. To help spark inspiration, Leeds Conservatoire Senior Lecturers Christopher Quick (Foundation Year, Songwriting and Music Business) and Dermot Daly (Musical Theatre, Acting, Actor Musician) share their tips, tricks and resources for overcoming creative block.
Try the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 Technique
Dermot suggests using the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 Technique if your ideas have come to a standstill. The 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 approach can be used to interpret your surroundings creatively or simply become grounded in the space you're in. Becoming aware of your surroundings can unlock heightened creative responses, and can be used by performers across genres, as well as actors and songwriters. It can also be used to calm pre-performance nerves, and help you release tension and anxiety.
In the place where you are, stop and note -
- 5 things that you can see
- 4 things that you can feel
- 3 things that you can hear
- 2 things that you can smell
- 1 thing that you can taste
Listen to Music, Watch Films, or Read a Book
Sometimes, watching or listening to others can be a great way to spark inspiration. Try listening to music you wouldn't normally listen to, or watch a play you've not seen before. Do this in a comfortable environment, where you can allow inspiration to strike.
There are lots of playlists on streaming sites such as Spotify and SoundCloud - try making your own!
Take Regular Breaks
Chris suggests taking regular breaks at 20 to 30 minute intervals when working on something creative. Overall, it might seem like you have less time to do something if you keep taking 5 minute breaks, but you end up more productive in those times you are focused on being creative, and you will likely end up getting more done.
Taking breaks is also useful for resetting your senses so when you return to the work it feels fresh and new, and it's much easier to spot things you want to do to develop it, than if you stay focused on it for long stretches of time.
This technique is particularly helpful if mixing or doing music production.
Collaborate with Others
If you're stuck in a creative rut, working with someone else might just be the solution. Whether you're trying to write a song, compose a script or learn lines, working with others allows you to bounce creative ideas and suggestions off each other without the fear of judgement.
Keep and eye on the LCSU Instagram, where the SU often host online mixer events for you to get to know others studying at Leeds Conservatoire.
Change up your Genre
If you're trying to create something in a specific genre and are stuck, start to think about how it would sound in a different genre. How would that Classical piece sound as a jazz piece? How would that Musical Theatre song sound as a HipHop song - would it work?
By doing this you remind yourself of the mechanics of your genre, whilst finding an alternative way of looking at a 'problem'.
Take Care of your General Wellbeing
It can be hard to focus and stay creative when you have distractions in your personal life. Take the time to practice self-care and look after your mental health, especially during busy exam seasons. Exercising, eating well and adopting a healthy sleeping pattern may help you feel more relaxed and in control, and talking to friends can help you manage your emotions, and turn it into creative energy.
Our Health & Wellbeing service provide a range of free mental health support services to help with any practical, emotional or mental health conditions you might be experiencing. Please get in touch if you feel like you need advice or support.
