Feeling Uninspired? 7 Ways to Get Your Creativity Back

8-minute read

Creativity isn’t just for artists or musicians—it’s for anyone looking to bring fresh energy into their life, whether that’s problem-solving, personal projects, or just making life more interesting. But what happens when your creativity feels like it's packed up and left? You sit there, waiting for inspiration to magically show up—and it doesn’t. The truth? Creativity isn’t about waiting—it’s about knowing how to invite it back in. These seven simple, science-backed strategies will help you shake off creative blocks and get your ideas flowing again—without forcing inspiration to strike.

1. Embrace Boredom (Yes, Really)

Ever notice how your best ideas come in the shower? That’s because when you let your mind wander, your brain enters a default mode network (DMN) state, which helps connect ideas and generate insights [1]. In other words, a little boredom can actually spark your next great idea.

Let Your Mind Wander and See Where It Takes You:

• Put down your phone and let yourself daydream for a few minutes.

• Go for a walk without listening to music or podcasts—just let your thoughts flow.

• Try an “unfocused” activity like doodling or folding laundry while letting your mind wander.

2. Change Your Input to Change Your Output

Your brain thrives on novelty. When you consume the same kind of content over and over, your thoughts start running on autopilot. Studies show that exposing yourself to new stimuli—books, experiences, conversations—can trigger fresh ideas [2].

Expose Yourself to New Ideas and Perspectives:

• Read a book outside of your usual genre.

• Listen to music in a language you don’t understand.

• Take a different route on your daily walk.

• Watch a documentary about something completely unrelated to your field of work.

3. Give Yourself Permission to Be Bad at It

Perfectionism is one of the biggest creativity killers. When we put pressure on ourselves to create something amazing, we end up doing nothing at all. Research from Stanford University found that a “beginner’s mindset” helps reduce fear of failure and improves creative problem-solving [3].

Embrace the Joy of Creating Without Pressure:

• Set a 10-minute timer and create something just for fun—no expectations, no audience.

• Start an “ugly sketchbook” where the goal is to make bad drawings on purpose.

• Write, paint, or play music with the intention of making mistakes.

4. Move Your Body, Move Your Mind

 Movement fuels creativity. A Stanford study found that walking boosts creative thinking by 60% [4]. Physical activity increases oxygen flow to the brain and activates neural pathways linked to problem-solving.

Activate Your Brain Through Physical Movement:

• Go for a 10-minute walk when you’re feeling creatively blocked.

• Try stretching, yoga, or even dancing to reset your brain.

• If you’re brainstorming, try pacing or using a standing desk.

5. Reconnect with Playfulness

When was the last time you did something just for fun? Playfulness removes pressure, reduces stress, and increases divergent thinking—the key to fresh ideas [5].

Reignite Your Creative Spirit Through Play:

• Try a new hobby with zero expectations (pottery, embroidery, or even LEGOs).

• Set a timer and free-write or doodle with no specific goal.

• Play improv-style games with friends to loosen up your thinking.

6. Switch Up Your Environment

Your surroundings affect your creativity more than you think. Psychologists found that changing your workspace—even slightly—can trigger new ideas and improve mental flexibility [6].

Transform Your Environment to Inspire Fresh Ideas:

• Rearrange your desk or add something new to your workspace (a plant, a scented candle, a mood board).

• Try working from a different location—café, library, or even your balcony.

• Change the lighting or background music to match the mood you want to create.

7. Create a Ritual to Summon Inspiration

Creative people often swear by their rituals—not because they’re magic, but because they train the brain to recognize when it’s time to create. Think of it like a warm-up before a workout.

Create a Personal Ritual to Spark Creativity:

• Light a candle or make a specific type of tea whenever you sit down to work.

• Listen to the same playlist when you want to get into a creative mindset.

• Have a specific notebook or pen that you only use for creative brainstorming.

Final Thought: Creativity Is a Muscle, Not a Mystery

The biggest myth about creativity? That it comes only when inspiration strikes. The truth is, creativity is a muscle—you can strengthen it with small, intentional habits. Whether it’s embracing boredom, changing your routine, or giving yourself permission to create without judgment, the key is to just start.

What’s one small thing you can do today to re-spark your creativity? Let us know in the comments!

References & Disclaimer

1. Harvard Medical School. The Neuroscience of Creativity and Boredom (2022).

2. University of California, Berkeley. How Novelty Sparks Creative Thinking (2021).

3. Stanford University Study on the Beginner’s Mindset and Creativity (2020).

4. Oppezzo & Schwartz. Give Your Ideas Some Legs: The Positive Impact of Walking on Creative Thinking (2014).

5. National Institute of Play. Why Playfulness Boosts Problem-Solving (2019).

6. Journal of Environmental Psychology. The Impact of Workspace Changes on Creative Thinking (2021).

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional creative or psychological advice. If you're struggling with chronic creative burnout, consult a licensed expert.