An Artist’s Guide to Embracing Creative Procrastination
Procrastination is a struggle many artists face, often accompanied by feelings of guilt and self-doubt. But what if procrastination isn’t just a hurdle—it’s part of the creative process? For me, periods of inaction sometimes lead to breakthroughs I didn’t expect. In this post, I’m sharing how I’ve learned to embrace creative procrastination and use it as fuel.
Understanding Boredom as a Creative Tool
Boredom might seem counterproductive, but it can be an artist’s secret weapon. When I find myself putting off a project, I ask myself what my boredom might be trying to tell me. Often, it’s a cue to explore new ideas, step away from routine, or even approach my art from a different perspective. Sometimes, the mind just needs space to wander and find new inspiration.
Breaking Down “Procrastination” Moments
Rather than thinking of procrastination as a problem, I break it down. Am I avoiding the work because I’m uninspired, uncertain, or afraid of failure? When I take a moment to understand what’s holding me back, I can find ways to reframe it as part of my process rather than a roadblock.
Embracing the Space Between Ideas
Art isn’t just about the time we spend actively creating—it’s about the pauses between strokes, the spaces in which ideas grow. Creative procrastination often gives me the room to imagine without restrictions, daydream without goals, and make connections I wouldn’t have seen otherwise. Those “wasted” moments are sometimes the ones that fuel my next project.
Tips for Productive Procrastination
For artists who struggle with procrastination, here are a few techniques I use to harness it creatively:
1. Mindful Distractions: Sometimes, engaging in a different task—reading, walking, listening to music—helps refresh my creative mind.
2. Tiny Goals: When I’m stuck, setting small, achievable tasks (even unrelated to art) can build momentum.
3. Reflection: Journaling during procrastination helps me identify what’s holding me back and may spark unexpected ideas.
A Final Note on Embracing the Journey
Procrastination doesn’t have to be a roadblock. When we view it as part of our creative journey, it becomes a time to recharge, reframe, and renew. If you’re an artist struggling with procrastination, I encourage you to embrace it as a necessary, even fruitful, part of your creative process.
