We’ve all been there: stuck in a creative rut. And the more pressure we put on ourselves — whether for work or hobby — the tougher it is to get those creative juices flowing. When your imagination gas tank is running on empty, don’t force the process. Instead, turn to one of these strategies to reignite your creativity.

Spend time in the kitchen. When you lack creative ideas for that marketing campaign or watercolour painting, turn to a low-pressure, familiar form of creative work. Cooking is both therapeutic and creative, allowing you to unwind while improvising, and unlocking the creative side of your brain.

Keep a notebook. Often, we expect creative ideas to present themselves the moment we sit down to work. But creativity isn’t a switch you can flick on at will. Instead, keep a notebook for when creative ideas strike. If you jot down ideas as they come to you, you’ll have pages of creative kindling to help start the fire under your next project.

Meditate. A clear mind is open to ideas. When we feel stressed, we zero in on small details and miss the big picture. You know the saying, can’t see the forest for the trees.

Doodle. It’s not just for kids. Doodling unlocks the creative side of your brain through relaxed, intuitive movement. Put pen to paper without the pressure of forming a thought, and feel the creative juices flow.

Get moving. The mind-body connection is a powerful thing. Get your blood pumping, and your brain will thank you for the chemical reaction that triggers creative thought.

What’s your favourite way to shake a creative block? Let us know in the comments.