How Creatives Can Boost Wellbeing During Tough Artistic Periods 

Tough periods in your artistic life are (unfortunately) an inevitable part of any creative journey. Whether it’s a lack of recognition, financial struggles, shifting trends, time constraints, or feeling creatively stifled in a corporate job, these challenges can take a toll on a creative person’s wellbeing. Below are a few strategies you might try to boost wellbeing during such times of strife and suffering.

13 Tips and Tricks to Boosting Wellbeing During Tough Artistic Periods

#1 Embrace Self-Compassion

Try to remember that artistic slumps are normal and don’t reflect on your talent or worth as an artist. Be kind to yourself, acknowledge your feelings, and avoid harsh self-criticism. Accepting that everyone experiences low points can help you navigate through them with greater ease and maintain a positive mindset.

#2 Connect with Your Community

Seek support from fellow artists, mentors, or online communities. Sharing your struggles and hearing others’ experiences can provide validation and encouragement. Building a network of supportive peers can offer new perspectives, collaborative opportunities, and a sense of belonging that can be incredibly comforting during tough times.

#3 Explore Different Creative Outlets

If your primary art form feels stagnant, try experimenting with new mediums or genres. This can spark fresh inspiration and reignite your creative passion. For example, a painter might try their hand at sculpting, or a writer might explore photography. Diversifying your creative activities can lead to unexpected discoveries and renewed enthusiasm.

#4 Prioritize Self-Care—Even If It Seems Silly

Make time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit. Exercise, meditation, spending time in nature, and pursuing hobbies unrelated to art can all contribute to improved well-being. Ensuring you are physically and mentally healthy can provide the energy and clarity needed to overcome creative blocks and stress.

#5 Set Realistic Goals

Break down larger artistic aspirations into smaller, achievable steps. This can help you maintain momentum and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Setting realistic and manageable goals allows you to celebrate small victories, which can build confidence and keep you motivated over time.

#6 Search for Inspiration in Unexpected Places

Look beyond your usual sources of inspiration. Read books, watch films, visit museums, explore different cultures, or engage in conversations with people from diverse backgrounds. Broadening your horizons can infuse your work with new ideas and perspectives, sparking creativity in ways you might not have anticipated.

#7 Practice Mindfulness

Engage in mindfulness exercises to cultivate awareness of the present moment and reduce stress. This can help you stay grounded and focused during challenging times. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and mindful observation can enhance your mental clarity and emotional resilience, making it easier to navigate through creative struggles.

#8 Seek Professional Help as Needed

If you’re struggling with significant emotional distress, consider seeking guidance from a therapist or counselor who specializes in working with creative individuals. Professional support can provide you with strategies to manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges, allowing you to maintain a healthier and more balanced approach to your creative work.

#9 Remember Your “Why” 

Reconnect with the reasons why you create art in the first place. Whether it’s for self-expression, social commentary, or simply the joy of creation, reminding yourself of your purpose can reignite your passion. Reflecting on the deeper motivations behind your art can provide a powerful source of inspiration and drive.

#10 Shrug Off the Lack of Recognition

Focus on creating art that resonates with you personally, regardless of external validation. Seek out opportunities to showcase your work in alternative spaces or online platforms. By prioritizing personal fulfillment over public recognition, you can maintain a more authentic and satisfying creative practice.

#11 Acknowledge the Reality of Your Situation

For some, their creative pursuits are hobbies (which can be expensive). For others, they are much-needed sources of supplementary income. Regardless, consider alternative ways of financing your interests. Explore grant opportunities, part-time jobs that allow for creative flexibility, or crowdfunding platforms. Being realistic about your financial needs and seeking out resources can alleviate some of the stress associated with pursuing art.

#12 Embrace Your Style and Rise Above Shifting Trends

Don’t feel pressured to conform to trends. Embrace your unique style and create art that is authentic to you. Staying true to your artistic vision can be more fulfilling and can help distinguish your work in a crowded marketplace. Authenticity often resonates more deeply with audiences and can lead to lasting impact and success.

#13 Find Small Ways to Be Truly You

Look for ways to incorporate creativity into your work life, even if it’s in small ways. Explore opportunities for creative expression outside of work through hobbies or volunteer activities. Finding small but meaningful ways to stay connected to your creative self can provide a sense of fulfillment and balance, helping you navigate through challenging artistic periods with greater ease.

Final Thoughts on Fostering Creativity in Hard Times

Navigating through tough artistic periods can be challenging, but try to remember that these phases are a natural part of the creative journey. By embracing self-compassion, connecting with your community, exploring new creative outlets, and prioritizing self-care, you can maintain your well-being and reignite your passion. Ultimately, by finding small ways to stay connected to your creative self, you can transform these difficult periods into opportunities for growth and renewed inspiration. Keep creating, stay authentic, and let your passion guide you through.