The Burden of Creativity: The Pressure to Constantly Create and How to Overcome It

I find it hard to sleep sometimes. When there’s a lot on my mind. When the cat wakes me up. When my neighbours come home from a night out somewhere. In any case, my alarm goes off at 6.45 every weekday morning so whether or not I have had enough sleep, I am up and awake and wondering how I might fill that time between getting out of bed and starting work. In my mind I will fill this time by writing, working on one of my many novels – one I’m currently querying, one I’m battling to finish. Or, I’ll put together notes for a new class. Or outline a research project. Inevitably, however, I find myself drinking coffee and reading the news online. And even though it is perfectly normal and acceptable to be drinking coffee and reading the news, it is the morning after all, I always feel like I should be spending the time doing something creative. This feeling can be motivational sometimes and it will spur me on to put down my coffee cup and open my laptop. Sadly, however, this feeling can also be an uncomfortable one. This is because being a creative individual can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it allows you to express yourself and your ideas in unique and innovative ways. But on the other hand, it also means that you are constantly under pressure to come up with new and fresh content. This pressure can be overwhelming, leading to burnout and a feeling of inadequacy.

One of the main sources of this pressure is the constant need to produce in today's fast-paced and highly competitive world. With the rise of social media and the proliferation of content, it can feel like there is an endless stream of people creating and putting their work out there. This can lead to feelings of comparison and competition, as we strive to keep up with the constant output of others.

To overcome the burden of creativity and the pressure to constantly create, it is important to set boundaries and prioritise self-care. This can include setting aside dedicated time for creative pursuits, taking breaks when needed, and finding ways to recharge and refocus. It is also important to remember that creativity is a process, and not every idea or piece of work will be a masterpiece. It is okay to take time to experiment and try new things, and it is important to be kind to yourself and give yourself grace when things don't go as planned.

Additionally, it can be helpful to seek out a supportive community of like-minded individuals who can provide encouragement and understanding. Surrounding yourself with others who are also navigating the challenges of the creative process can help to alleviate feelings of isolation and provide a sense of camaraderie.

In the end, it is important to remember that creativity is a gift, and it is okay to take breaks and prioritise your well-being. With self-care and a supportive community, you can find a balance and continue to create without feeling overwhelmed by the burden of it all.

It is also important to remember that creativity comes in many forms, and it is okay to pursue creative endeavours in your own way. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to being creative, and it is okay to find your own path and follow your own interests.

Additionally, it can be helpful to find ways to channel your creative energy into other areas of your life. This can include finding hobbies or activities that allow you to express your creativity in a more low-pressure environment. This can help to alleviate the burden of feeling like you have to constantly produce, and can provide a sense of balance and fulfilment.

Finally, it is important to remember that creativity is a personal journey, and it is okay to take breaks and step back when needed. It is okay to take time to recharge and refocus, and it is important to prioritise your well-being above all else. By remembering that creativity is a process and not a destination, you can approach it with a sense of curiosity and exploration, rather than feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to constantly create.

It can also be helpful to reframe the way you think about creativity and the pressure to create. Instead of seeing it as a burden, try to see it as an opportunity to express yourself and share your ideas with the world. Recognise that your creative endeavours have the potential to bring value and enjoyment to others, and that every piece of work you create is a step forward in your journey.

It is also important to remember that creativity is a skill that can be developed and improved over time. With practice and dedication, you can become more confident and proficient in your creative pursuits. This can help to alleviate some of the pressure to constantly produce, as you become more comfortable and capable in your craft.

Another helpful tip is to set specific goals and priorities for your creative endeavours. By focusing on what is most important to you and setting clear goals, you can avoid becoming overwhelmed by the pressure to constantly create. This can help you to stay focused and motivated, and can make it easier to prioritise your time and energy.

It is also important to remember that creativity can come in unexpected ways, and it is important to be open to new ideas and opportunities. Sometimes, the pressure to create can be eased by stepping back and allowing yourself to be open to new experiences and perspectives. This can help to spark new creative ideas and approaches, and can help to alleviate the feeling of being stuck or overwhelmed.

It can also be helpful to set aside time for ‘creative play’ or experimentation. This can be a low-pressure way to explore new ideas and approaches, and can help to alleviate the feeling of being under constant pressure to produce. By allowing yourself the freedom to play and explore, you can open up new avenues for creative expression and growth.

It is also important to remember that creativity is not a finite resource, and it is okay to take breaks and step back when needed. It is important to prioritise your well-being and give yourself permission to rest and recharge. By taking care of yourself, you can ensure that you are able to approach your creative endeavours with a clear mind and renewed energy.

In conclusion, the burden of creativity and the pressure to constantly create can be overwhelming, but it is possible to find a balance and continue to create in meaningful and fulfilling ways. By setting boundaries, prioritising self-care, being open to new ideas and opportunities, and setting aside time for creative play and experimentation, you can overcome these challenges and continue to express yourself in innovative and satisfying ways.

There is hope to be found here. The hope that our own creativity is always there for us to draw upon, even when we are not drawing upon it. We rely on our own creativity to see us through, to help us achieve our goals, whatever they may be. And so I hope that the next time I am awake early and drinking coffee and reading the news online I hope that I will be also be able to deal positively with the burden of creativity. ?