How can you stay motivated during long periods of creative stagnation or rejection?

Staying motivated during difficult times requires identifying limiting beliefs in our subconscious. We need to Identify, Acknowledge, and Process emotions. (IAP) STEP 1 - IDENTIFY: Write down your thoughts. i.e, "I'm not smart enough to figure this out" STEP 2- ACKNOWLEDGE: Ask yourself lovingly, when did I FIRST notice this thought? How old was I? What was the circumstance? Who I was with? What was going on? Maybe you were 7 years old failing math and you got a tutor. STEP 3- PROCESS: Close your eyes + visualize you at 7 years old. With your hand on your heart feel in your body the sadness, fear, etc. After a few minutes remind yourself you're not 7 years old. Reframe the story so it feels believable. Practice the reframe.

You can't rely on motivation, it can't be scheduled, or forced. The good news is that feelings come and go. Two things to avoid if you're lacking motivation: 1. Don't resist, deny, or avoid negative feelings because that leads to procrastination and will make it less likely that you take productive action to get out of the rut. Notice it and accept that you feel that way in the moment. 2. Don't wallow in the thoughts that are causing negative thoughts. Wallowing is like doubling down and thoughts are not facts (even though we tend to believe our own bullshit). To start moving towards motivation again the most important thing you can do is to try to connect to your curiosity and to keep taking action!

As a coach I can say that the tricky bit is you need to sit with these emotions anger, sadness, anxiety… whatever emotion the stagnation is triggering in you. However sitting with it and wallowing in it are different. Sitting with the emotions is about observing them and then letting them go, and not engage in judging them or figuring out the why… As a writer, I know it’s not easy especially when the world around you seems to be working fine , it’s hard not to question your abilities. In moments like this allowing yourself to be kinder to your own self, setting smaller targets and milestones , holding yourself gently helps ♥️

Life is all about ups and downs that’s why it’s key to always remember the wins in the middle of every loss. Positive Affirmations. As a creative always empower yourself with knowledge. I always read “The Secret and I also watch “The Founder” again and again. Connect with others. Reaching out to fellow creatives has always gave me a recharge and inspiration. Celebrate the SMALL wins always. Recognise YOU and celebrate YOU it’s a magic trick to boost morale.

Facing creative stagnation or dealing with rejection can feel like navigating a stormy sea, but amidst the chaos, there is still a light of resilience shining through. Think of this period as a foggy break in your creative journey - a time to recognize and address the emotions that are stirred within. In the creation process, the beginning is often met with enthusiasm, but as the echoes of rejection or stagnation linger, discord can creep in. Embrace any frustration or disappointment and allow them to unravel like worn sails in the wind. Remember, accepting your feelings is not giving in, but rather a guiding compass to navigate through rough waters.

During extended periods of creative stagnation or facing rejection, I maintain motivation by shifting my perspective. Instead of viewing it as a setback, I see it as an opportunity to learn and grow. I revisit past successes, reminding myself of the creative journey and the resilience needed in the industry. Engaging in activities outside of my creative field, seeking inspiration from diverse sources, and setting small achievable goals help me regain momentum. Additionally, I actively seek feedback, turning rejection into constructive insights for improvement. Ultimately, staying motivated involves embracing challenges, maintaining a positive mindset, and using setbacks as stepping stones towards future successes. You can do this!

In my experience facing stagnation in one creative area, exploring other projects or creative outlets. This can help prevent burnout and keep our minds engaged with different challenges. Take breaks: Permit us to take breaks when needed. Stepping away from your work for a while can provide a fresh perspective and help you come back with renewed energy. Practice self-compassion: Being kind to ourself. Creative pursuits often involve setbacks, and it's essential to recognize that everyone experiences rejection and stagnation. Treat ourselves with the same empathy and understanding we would offer to a friend.

When you feel stuck or face multiple rejections, it's important not to internalise and to take these events as signs of personal failure. Instead, take a moment to sit down with pen and paper and use reflective questioning. Think about what went well and what didn't. Consider what you could have done differently and what you can learn from the experience. By focusing on these things, you can channel all that negative energy into a fuel for positivity and become proactive in your personal growth.

Yet also celebrate others. This world, culture and generation is so blinded by self care at times. At the most, investing and pouring into someone or others ventures will make the ground move. Your life’s work rewarding and even more passionate.

It is good to avoid putting pressure on yourself to produce creative outcomes. Sometimes you need to step away from the process to not only practice self care but engage in something that makes you feel good. You may want to go to the art institute or the museum. It’s a bonus to have a spouse or partner to be with you but sometimes they may not be motivated to do what you want when you want it! Therefore prepare to travel alone but remember to stay alert.

Stagnation. Reflection and quiet time. Consider sitting alone, quietly, in your favorite place for 15 minutes. Allow your thoughts to come up, acknowledge them and release, until you are present. Peace, calm and deliberate quiet. When you are ready pick up the journal and allow your thoughts to tumble out without restriction. Once you have stopped writing, cleared your mind of all other thoughts and ideas....begin to reflect on why you feel stagnate and what you can do to change that. I firmly believe you have all the answers you need to change the internal messages and begin.

Do something fun but that requires some dedication and that’s way outside the area you’re finding challenging. When I’m unmotivated I’ve found it extremely helpful to get connected with nature and spirit. In particular I like to do a little gardening. Getting my hands dirty connects me with the earth. There is anticipation of the future growth that comes with planting a seedling. And instant satisfaction in pruning and creative landscaping. The stillness allows me to listen deeper. When I’m done, I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished. Everything is beautiful and fresh with possibility. It inspires and sense of revival that also renews my soul; which is where all inspiration comes from. Cooking and crafts are also great alternatives.

Where is the feeling of stagnation or rejection coming from? Are you taking it personally? Clearing the root cause of all this will help shift your mindset and your energy. You'll feel lighter and be able to focus more on what you do, which is your passion and your true nature. What you were born to do.