Is your creative strength draining your energy?

Content creator Janis Ozolins identifies four main dynamics (pictured below) that can have this effect, especially when we feel tired or overwhelmed. Do any apply to you? If so, check out these handy tips to jump out of the loop and back into your flow. 

1 .  Perfectionism

Strength: Improving 

If overplayed, it can become a quest to reach Planet Perfect. 

Tip: Check whether what you have now is fit for purpose with a trusted peer. If so, let it go! 

2 .  New idea syndrome

Strength: Creating 

If overplayed, it can create chaos!

Tip: Sketch or write down one idea and go through the pros and cons aloud. 

3.  Overthinking 

Strength: Reflecting 

If overplayed, it can transform thoughts into a stagnant pond of contemplation. 

Tip: Get out of your head – take a three-minute break, breathe out, and walk around. 

4.  Learning for entertainment

Strength: Desire to acquire knowledge. 

If overplayed, it can evolve into a journey of endless discovery. 

Tip: Put a visual clue on your screen or desk to remind yourself to implement. 

Taking preventative action 

To avoid getting trapped in the loop in the first place, watch out for the physical symptoms that act as early warning signs. Has something become different in your voice, gestures, or choice of words? Are you breathing faster or feeling jittery? Has your posture changed or become rigid? Do you find yourself transfixed and staring into space? If so, down tools, breathe deeply and take a proper break from the task at hand – and don’t return to it until you have forgotten what it was you were doing!