One skill that every designer must learn — and quickly — is how to be creative on-demand. While there will always be specifications that guide a project as well as tried and true methods of solving common visual problems, one must still be able to get focused, get creative and produce work that doesn’t end up looking formulaic or forced.
Unfortunately, though, not every project will be tantalizing and fun, and there will be days when you simply don’t want to go to work, no matter how much you love your job. How do you keep the creative spark going when you’re not feeling particularly inspired? We have 12 simple tips you can use to foster a more creative mindset.
While most of these tips are for the freelance de signer who works independently, anyone in a creative industry should be able to relate and gain insight from them.
1. Set a Schedule
Having a fixed schedule may sound counter-productive to creativity, but in fact, it has several benefits. Knowing what you’re going to do and when you’re going to do it can free your mind to focus on the task at hand without worrying about all of the little things that can distract you. Setting aside two hours on your Monday mornings to deal with business paperwork, for instance, means you won’t be distracted from Wednesday’s project by rushing out to pay the office electric bill. Fixed office hours means that — most of the time — you won’t have to take work home with you, which will lower your overall stress level.
2. Have a Dedicated Workspace — Most of the Time
Similar to setting a schedule, having a dedicated workspace frees you from distraction and...
