It may sound odd, but sometimes musicians get fed up with daily practice, writing, and playing. It's easy to burn out on creativity if you're not giving yourself the occasional break. If you've been sensing a decrease in productivity or passion for music, it may be best to step away for a bit and clear your head. If music is burning you out, try these five tips to give your mind a break and get back in the game.
Immersing yourself in the great outdoors is beneficial for both your mind and body. Getting fresh air will help make you feel better overall and possibly calm your frustration built up by too much time cooped up in your practice space. You may even find some inspiration in the forest and apply it to new songs.
Volunteering for homeless shelters, animal shelters, hospital programs, or various organizations allows you to give back and reaffirm your gratitude for where you are in life. There are endless volunteer options out there that allow you to connect with people you may not meet otherwise who have incredible life stories.
Finding inspiration in films allows us to zone out and let ourselves focus on an alternative universe. Whatever genre you enjoy, find a film you've never seen and allow yourself to relax. If you're a movie freak and have seen every title known to man, choose one that inspires you and allows you to relax at the same time.
Sometimes feeling burned out with music can be related to not getting enough sleep. Though creativity can come at odd hours of the morning (I know it does for me), it's important to be well-rested. Whatever your sleep schedule may be, try to get enough rest so you have energy to dedicate to your music the next day.
If you have the means, travel is one of the best cures for lost inspiration. Whether you can afford a trip to another country, state, or city, there are many options out there. It's great to have a travel buddy – perhaps even your band can make the trip. If you're seeking solitude, solo trips are a fantastic way to find inspiration, enlightenment, and focus on restoring your creativity.
What do you do to clear your mind when music is burning you out? Let us know in the comments below!
Kathleen Parrish is a singer and songwriter from Seattle, WA. While she specializes in lyrics, she enjoys writing short stories, poetry, and journalism. For more information, please visit www.kathleenparrish.com.