Help...i need an idea!!

We've all been there... sat at our computer/tablet/pad and not known where on earth to start a project. It may be that the project is simply so large that all you need is a project plan to break down the chunks. Sorted.

But what if that's not it...? What if you purely have creative block and feel that all of your brightest ideas have been used in recent projects? Tight deadlines are always a common cause for 'the block', but these are inevitable. You need inspiration and you need it FAST.

Thankfully there are exercises and checklists to help you through this frustrating time. Even if the outcome doesn't directly lead you to the perfect idea...they will start you thinking and, in turn, drag you out of the pit of despair!!

Here are my top six tips for getting back your creative mojo:

1) Check you have all of the relevant information.

Now this may sound obvious, but sometimes the information presented to you by a client/colleague may not be enough to work with. You can try... but if you need to know more or you're finding it difficult to visualise what the project's even about - then its time to pop the cluedo hat on and ask as many questions as necessary. It will also help you out in the long-run as misinterpreting briefs can be catastrophic.

2) Communication is key.

You've come up with some ideas...but you're convinced they are going in the wrong direction. Don't sit on them and ponder, this wastes time and digs you further and further into 'the block'. Use internal staff to bounce these ideas off. You may find that they actually ARE hitting the brief or the staff may present thoughts and opinions you hadn't yet considered. Even the most well-rounded ideas can benefit from an outsider's perspective before being committed to.

3) Create a good balance between isolation and outside influences.

You may be distracted from conversations surrounding you or the office music playlist just doesn't float your boat. Either way... take some time out. Stick on the headphones...listen to your own choice of music...sometimes even the process of putting on headphones without any sounds helps me zone-out and focus. If you're lucky enough to be able to work in a different room for a period of time - do it.

It goes without saying that this also works in reverse. If you've been sat working alone or isolated under those headphones for too long... be sociable. Something you overhear from the conversation the other side of the room may just spark some inspiration!

4) Use creative flash cards.

You could make your own or even just flick through magazines letting your eyes pick out random words. Brian Eno and Peter Schmidt created a pack of cards in the 70s called 'Oblique Strategies'. I cannot recommend these enough!! They were originally produced to alleviate musicians block...but work just as well in any form of creative role. They are a series of words and sentences designed to relieve times of pressure by making you think another way or about something else. They also look pretty cool and something all creatives should own!!

www.enoshop.co.uk

5) Be a sponge.

For an immediate cure... get out and about. If 'the block' is definitely not laziness and you've tried all of the above you need to take a break and let your mind have some fresh air. Talking a walk will not only calm you down in general, but it will also open up your senses to what's going on in the world (opposed to just your screen and desk). Take in your surroundings and really look at things. Did you even know there was that bakery round the corner??

For good practice, and a more long-term solution...you need to keep interested. Go to galleries and gigs, read magazines, watch bizarre documentaries. This will keep your mind active and open to new ideas.

6) Speak to other professionals

Here at Apple Print and Creative we are always happy to help with creative consultations or even project brainstorming sessions. If you're stuck with a campaign idea to launch that latest product or would like to bounce off advertising plans with a member of our experienced team then just give us a call. We will happily visit you or you can pop into The Orchard for a cup of tea, cake and a natter. Often the best ideas come from collaboration.

If you need help with a project or would just like to chat an idea through then drop us a line www.appleprint.co.uk