As public relations professionals, we are expected to be constantly creative. Clients expect us to consistently tap into our creative reservoirs to produce engaging content for their target audiences. But sometimes, the reservoir is zapped dry and we are cursed with a temporary spell commonly known as writer’s block. Hitting this wall can be overwhelming, especially if you are trying to meet a deadline.
But never fear! Writer’s block doesn’t have to feel like a pressure cooker. Here are six tips to help you get your creative juices flowing again.
1. Get away from the computer
Sounds simple? Definitely. But getting away from the computer can be a great way to jumpstart your creativity. When you work on a computer all day, seeing that blinking cursor count down the minutes to your deadline can make your creative block worse. So take a walk, go for a bike ride or just spend some time on a park bench. The fresh air will do you good.
2. Get inspiration from a child
Children are not afraid to have an opinion. Sometimes, things that seem ordinary to us are extraordinary for them. They have a wonder that can’t be sated. They always speak their minds and tend to be funny, often by accident. So talk to a child (or several) about your project.
Say you are trying to find a unique angle for a media pitch about an upcoming fundraiser gala. Ask what they might wear to a gala or what friends they’d invite . If something they say strikes a chord with you, use it in your own way.
3. Do things out of order
As reassuring as a routine can be, shaking things up can be good for your creative process. Instead of answering emails or creating social media posts first thing in the morning, work on your creative piece or ask someone about your project right off the bat.
Many people benefit from a quick burst of aerobic activity, or 10-minute of mediation. Try out some different activities and see what works for you. Even a simple change can keep you on your toes. Then when you sit down to do your creative work, your brain is active, ready, and aware.
4. Laugh
Laughter can ease the tension that may be holding you back and putting up the block in the first place. When we keep running into writer’s block, our first reaction is to get frustrated and do something else until inspiration strikes—maybe that something else should be laughing. Laughter sparks happiness, and happiness makes you feel relaxed. Just like smiling, laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural, feel-good chemicals. Watch a funny video, read something humorous, and let that sense of well-being fuel your creativity.
5. Re-visit the person/place/or conversation that first inspired you
What initially inspired you? Take a field trip or schedule a phone call, whatever it takes to rekindle the feeling of excitement you had when you first started the project Don’t forget! Bring a notebook and pencil with you so that you can write down any ideas that strike.
6. Brainstorm a bunch
Whatever you project, spend some time brainstorming to get the ideas flowing. Jot down your thoughts on a whiteboard or on a big piece of poster board. Draw doodles, create mind maps, or try our one of these brainstorming tools. Sometimes brainstorming can draw you out of your box so you can create work that is original and engaging.
These are just some of our favorite tricks to help Denver PR pros make their creativity flow. Let us know if there are some things you do that we haven’t mentioned.
From workshops to media strategy, Pushkin Public Relations helps clients build lasting brands built on trust and integrity. If you would like to set up a free consultation, give us a call or send us an email.