How to Avoid The Summer Slump
It’s the middle of the summer season. Vacations, fun in the sun, barbecues and picnics have been filling much longer days. If you’re like many artists, there’s one drawback to the season: the summer slump.
The summer slump is a direct descendent of the summer breaks we all had as children. It was a time for fun and play and a general carelessness. Our inner children still expect a break during this time, expecting to get serious when it’s time to go back to school. So, how do you avoid the summer slump?
- Enjoy yourself: Maybe your inner child is on to something. After all, children are some of the most creative people on the planet. So, maybe now is the time to lean into the fun. As you relax, you may gain a new perspective on a creative problem.
- Keep track: Take notes on your thoughts, observations, feelings during the summer. These notes can serve as inspiration for new creative projects down the road. If you are feeling more ambitious, you can structure or outline your next artistic project.
- Meet up with other artists: If you’re going to be enjoying the warmer weather with picnics, rooftop parties and barbecues anyway, why not invite some of your fellow artists to join you? Talking about creative projects may provide that artistic spark you’re looking for.
- Work anyway: If you want to find an excuse for not doing your artistic work, you can always find one. Most successful artists work every day. You should too. If you are having a hard time going to your traditional work space, change it up. Try setting up a place to work in a different environment that allows you enjoy the great weather -such as bringing your computer or easel to your back deck or neighborhood park to connect with nature while you work.
Are there any steps you take to avoid slumps? Please feel free to share in the comments!