Burnout - The Dark Side of Creativity

Last month I discussed the not so fabulous part of the creative process, Creative Block, and five ways to help overcome it. This month, as promised, we’ll be looking at its more intense counterpart, Creative Burnout.

Whether it’s pressure from deadlines, perfectionism, or the constant churn of conceptualizing, creativity takes its toll. Where Creative Block is more of a temporary state that holds you back, Creative Burnout full-on sucks your joy and passion from the creative process leaving you mentally and emotionally exhausted.

According to Emily Bradley, head of operations for fatjoe (marketing agency), “One of the main reasons for this burnout is that, as creative individuals, there’s a difficulty in ‘switching off.’ There’s a strong overlap between personal and professional creativity that can make it harder to maintain a good work-life balance.” (forbes.com) With the creative field constantly changing, it’s requiring those of us that work in it to crank out new, original ideas to stay ahead, causing our brains and imaginations to work over time.

It’s important to recognize the signs of Creative Burnout to help catch it early so you can quickly implement steps to work through it.

1. Creative Block - can’t generate new ideas or find inspiration

2. Decreased Productivity - trouble completing tasks at your normal rate

3. Emotional Detachment - decline in enthusiasm / passion for your work

4. Increased Irritability - more emotional reactions to minor issues / constant frustration

5. Fatigue / Exhaustion - mental and physical even after resting

6. Physical Issues - headaches, muscle pain, trouble sleeping, changes in appetite

There isn’t a cure for Creative Burnout, but if you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, try doing the following to help remedy it.

1. Create Work-Life Balance - Hold firm to start & stop times and have regular breaks

2. Focus On Self-Care - Make sure you relax (exercise, listen to music, do a hobby, etc)

3. Unplug - Step away from all screens to give your brain a break

4. Connect IRL - Spend time with people inside and outside of work (don’t isolate yourself)

5. Address Stressors - Speak up if you feel unfair demands or pressures are put on you

6. Therapy - Get professional support so you can heal

As I said before, there’s no shame in having a creative burnout or block. When you’re creating things completely from your own imagination, it’s understandable that you may struggle at times. Again, we’re only human.