What is creative burnout?
Burnout is a physical state of exhaustion that occurs as a result of intense stressors in a specific area of life, such as work or in relationships. People who make art experience a similar state of exhaustion, which can be mental, physical, or emotional, that can leave one feeling hopeless and unable to continue making art. Signs include feelings of dread towards creating art, procrastinating making art, self-doubt, and disinterest. For creatives, the immense amount of pressure that can exist in creating can trigger a creative burnout episode.
Why does creative burnout occur?
Creative burnout can occur after a variety of stressors impact the creative process including long working hours, pressure to create, harsh deadlines, low inspiration, and financial pressure to succeed with art making. Those pursuing creative efforts as a job, or as part of an academic program may be more susceptible to burnout, since some part of their livelihood or future can depend on making art. Deadlines, pressure, and poor working conditions inherently go against the nature of the creative process, which can foster negative emotions for those naturally tuned into the creative process.
What can I do if I am experiencing creative burnout?
If you’re already experiencing creative burnout, you most likely need to take a break from the creative process to rejuvenate yourself. Allow yourself to take time to care for yourself and your needs outside of your art. It may be helpful to increase rest, seek professional support, and generally treat any symptoms you may be experiencing. When you’re ready to return to your art, you may find that working in a different environment, using new mediums or tools, or engaging with fellow artists may help you to return with a more positive mindset.
Prevention
Prevention of creative burnout lies in the ability to recognize your working conditions and habits in the creative space. Taking breaks between projects or while working long hours, engaging with others, and seeking inspiration can all help you to avoid burnout-like symptoms. In addition, proper self-care, including good eating habits, stress management, and realistic expectations can help you to care for your full self, in order to motivate and encourage healthy art expression.
About Therapist Samantha Nolan, MA, LPC, ATR- Barnum Counseling
Photo by Matthieu Jungfer on Unsplash