Todd Sumamno
Alright, let’s talk real talk about burnout. Everyone encounters it in every field imaginable, but when you’re in a profession where you’re supposed to create beautiful things, you’re especially prone to it. Our world of logo design, brand design, web design, and illustration is no stranger to burnout – that feeling when your creative flame flickers and you’re left wondering if you’ve used up all your genius. It happens to the best of us. But fear not! Here’s your survival guide to keep that creative fire burning without burning out.
Why Burnout Happens?
Burnout can sneak up on anyone, and its causes are often a mix of internal and external factors. Here’s a breakdown of why burnout happens:
1. Excessive Workload
Long hours, tight deadlines, and a never-ending to-do list can leave you feeling drained and overwhelmed.
2. Insufficient Rewards
If your hard work goes unnoticed or unappreciated, it is super demoralizing.
3. Mismatched Values
Working for a company whose values don’t resonate with your own can be emotionally draining.
4. Poor Work-Life Balance
Constantly being on the grind with little time for relaxation and personal activities can lead to burnout.
Understanding and taking proactive steps to address these things can prevent or mitigate burnout. It’s about finding a balance that works for you, setting boundaries, and recognizing when it’s time to step back and prioritize your well-being.
How Do You Help Yourself If You’re Experiencing Burnout?
Of course there are many very radical ways of dealing with burnout, like implementing big life changes, but that’s not for this article to advise on. Here are simple steps you can do to make your burnout symptoms feel a little bit less awful.
1. Let Loose and Play Around
First things first, let’s ditch the idea that every stroke needs to be a masterpiece. Get back to the basics of why you fell in love with design or illustration in the first place. Forget about clients and deadlines for a bit and just play. Try out new styles and funky colors, or just doodle for the heck of it. Creative play is like a shot of espresso for your artistic soul.
2. Set Work Boundaries
We live in a digital age where work never really sleeps. But guess what? You’re not a robot. Set clear boundaries for when work starts and when it ends. Resist the urge to answer emails at midnight or tweak designs until sunrise. Your creativity needs rest, and so do you.
3. Take a Break from Screens
Staring at screens day in and day out can fry your brain. Break free from the digital prison and go analog. Hit up art galleries, take a stroll in the park, or flip through a good ol’ design book. Let your eyes and mind detox from pixels and soak in real-world inspiration.
4. Collaborate and Connect
Design and illustration can get lonely. Break the solitude by teaming up with fellow creatives. Share ideas, bounce off each other’s creativity, or even embark on joint projects. The camaraderie not only makes your work richer but also provides a sanity check when things get tough.
5. Rotate Your Projects
Monotony is the arch-enemy of creativity. Instead of banging your head against a challenging logo, switch gears. Jump to a simpler illustration or dive into a personal project. The change keeps things interesting and lets your brain recharge for the next creative battle.
6. Prioritize Self-Care
You’re not a machine; you’re a human with needs. Make sure those needs are met. Get enough sleep, eat like you give a damn, throw in some exercise, take a long shower, or grab a g spot vibrator instead of a pen from time to time. A well-nourished, relaxed body and mind are your secret weapons against burnout.
7. Master the Art of Saying No
As your skills become hot property, the projects will flood in. Here’s the thing: you’re not a superhero (or maybe you are, but even superheroes need downtime). Learn to say no to projects that don’t align with your vibe or when your plate is already full.
Is It Possible To Battle Burnout When You’re In A Creative Profession?
Yes, it is. Burnout is not a death sentence. Treat these tips as your survival guide to kick burnout to the curb and keep that creative mojo flowing. Remember, the most awe-inspiring masterpieces come from minds that are well-fed, well-rested and well-loved.
Brittany
