Advice On Avoiding Creative Burnout

by JohnG

posted on 10/09/2009

If you work in a creative field, then there is a good likelihood that you are having a constant battle between being productive and being innovative. When management provides goals and objectives for an organization, they evaluate the work as linear tasks; however, those who work in a creative capacity are generally not linear workers, so there is an immediate internal conflict. For those who are artists, designers, engineers, writers or some variation of these job categories, it is a constant struggle to stay positive and motivated … and to avoid burning out.

Avoiding burnout is about being mindful of our environment and living in the moment. Inspiration doesn't knock on our door when we are under pressure to perform on deadline or within the confines of a structure that is not conducive to creativity. Corporate business types don't understand the artistic energy, so it is easy to deplete our creative energy and resources when we work under individuals who are not trained to understand the creative temperament.

Recognizing triggers that will set off a chain of events leading to burnout is important. Not being our best creatively is stressful on our bodies and can lead to both physical and psychological ailments, including decreased self-esteem and self worth.
So how can we win against environmental barriers that inhibit our creativity and lead to burnout? Here are some ideas.

Identify triggers. Know what will cause your creativity to diminish and take steps to avoid those situations or find coping mechanisms.

Be realistic about what you can and cannot do.Don't volunteer or accept assignments that will be affect you adversely. Talk things over with your supervisor about your strengths and suggest he or she use your strengths appropriately.

Manage your space and energy. Keep things neat, clean and organized. Take care of yourself by getting enough sleep and exercise. Eat healthy meals. Avoid stress.

Spend time with positive people. Cut out negative people from your life and surround yourself with those of similar mind. Bounce ideas off likeminded people and get support from those who share your views.

Don't compromise values or ideals. If you have to compromise, you will be unhappy and frustrated, which leads to burnout. If things are so intolerable, then it probably is time to look for a job change. Just taking that type of action can eliminate burnout, since you'll be looking forward to new and exciting opportunities.

Burnout happens to the best of us, but creative types are affected more adversely when it happens. Paying attention to the signs of burnout and taking some positive, proactive steps may be all that is needed to keep things flowing smoothly.

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