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Music artists have the ability to speak through song. The gift of being able to convey complex emotions melodically is a part of every day life until a creative slump hits. It can be frustrating when ideas don't flow as freely as we'd like. Falling into a creative slump can be disheartening, but you don’t have to remain there. Here are some tips to help ignite your creative spark and get you back into your groove.

1) Do something that allows your mind to relax

Workout, get a massage, soak in a hot tub, do anything that helps you calmly gather your thoughts. Drowning out the noise will allow you to muse freely. Once you’re able to hear yourself think, you’ll be able to get in tune with what you need to create.

2) Observe the World Around You

Take a walk, sit in the park, go to a coffee shop or anywhere that allows you to see things from a perspective other than your own. Developing imaginary backstories for the things you encounter can provide you with fresh ideas, offering more depth for your music. In addition to supplying a unique perspective, a simple change of scenery works wonders for the psyche, enabling you to think bigger.

3) Absorb Creativity

Attend a live show, go to a museum, watch something you enjoy, read a book or a poem. Immersing yourself in creativity can spark your own. Witnessing the work of fellow creatives can replenish your inspiration. Being in the midst of artistry extends confidence to let your art exist.

4) Use Writing Prompts for Inspiration

Search the web to find thought-provoking scenarios you can build upon. Writing prompts trigger your mind to explore concepts you may not have otherwise. Whether it helps you to recall details of something you’ve experienced or imagine the way fictional events would realistically occur, they’re a great way to uncover new insights.

5) Listen to instrumentals

Press play with or without your pen and pad to absorb the unspoken story in the melody. Frequently when artists listen to instrumentals they listen with preconceived notions. Instead, simply ponder on the things that come to mind when you hear it. Write the story you hear the instrumental telling.

6) Write Like No One's Watching

Write what comes to mind as if no one will hear it but you. Hearing your unadulterated thoughts will help you discover what you need to say. It relieves the pressure to make it make sense to someone else, allowing you to write something authentic to you.

7) Don't Stress About Perfection

Imperfections can serve a purpose. Often the beauty of art comes from the rawness that is human expression. Unrefined emotion gives music character. The nuance can provide a realness that resonates with the listener in a way that a perfectly polished piece cannot.

8) Remember You Can Make Adjustments Later

Give yourself the freedom to just get it down. Knowing that what you’re working on does not have to be the final draft enables you to create without censoring yourself. Removing these boundaries liberates you to explore without refrain. You can go back and fix anything that you need to later.

Being a music artist is a gift. Receiving that gift means that there is an audience that needs to hear what you have to offer. Regaining access to your voice benefits both you and your listeners. Trying any combination or all of these things should help you recharge and get back to doing what you do best. What do you do when you need to unlock your creativity? Please share in the comments!

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