The Pressure to Create

This post is for those of you under pressure to create. Whether it be for commissioned orders, gifts, design team work, etc, sometimes pressure can stifle creativity.

I am on four design teams and combined that puts me at ten projects per month. Some have suggested that I step down from one or more but that’s not me; when I make a commitment I do my best to keep it. Even if it’s hard.

I have to be honest, though, that it’s stressful to be obligated to make so many things every month. I’ve struggled with it a bit but I think I’ve found my groove.

Today I’ll share what I do to escape that pressure, prevent the loss of my creativity, and ensure that what I’m doing keeps being fun:

1.) Find another hobby

I have found that in order for me to keep from getting burnt out by paper crafting (and for it to remain fun) I have had to turn to other crafts and hobbies for personal enjoyment

2.) Do something just for yourself

If I only ever made things I was obligated to make I wouldn’t want to create anything anymore. That is why I make things just for myself. I like going over to the Sisterhood of Snarky Stampers blog and joining in on their latest challenge. I also create things that I don’t share with anyone else and that I don’t post to social media. They are my own personal crafts and creations for me (and my family, should they so please) to enjoy

3.) Keep a calendar

I have a planner that I use to keep track of everything; when things are due, theme, when things are scheduled to go live, when I need to post, guidelines for different companies, etc. It’s helpful for me to have everything in one place and physically writing it down helps me feel more organized for some reason

4.) Put together a technique list

Write down all the different techniques you know how to do; that way if you can’t think of any ideas you can look through your list of techniques

5.) Look at things others have made on Pinterest or Instagram

I frequently gather inspiration from things others have created. Remember that inspiration is not the same thing as copying. You can read about the difference here.

Keep in mind that it’s supposed to be fun. If you aren’t having fun then maybe whatever is causing the pressure on your creativity isn’t worth it.

Thanks for stopping by. I truly appreciate so many people taking the time to read what I have to say.

Until next time,

Stamps, tramps, lava lamps,

Samantha