Have you ever looked at yourself in the mirror and wondered who that uninspired individual was starting back at you? This existential crisis is something I found myself experiencing on an almost daily basis since turning 35 and, as a professional freelance creative for nearly 20 years now, it’s one I never expected to hit so hard and so soon.
Of course, that ennui can always feed into your creative spark but it can also chip away at you, leaving you feeling adrift and uncertain. The life of a creative is a roller coaster of highs and lows, and losing your edge can feel like a freefall into an abyss of self-doubt. I’ve been there and I’ll be there again but it’s important to take stock at moments like this and realise the peaks wouldn’t feel as high without the troughs.
The Highs and Lows of the Creative Journey
Creativity is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it's the source of immense joy and fulfillment, the fuel that drives us to create, innovate, and inspire. On the other hand, it's a fragile, fickle thing that can desert us when we least expect it. The creative process is often romanticised, but in reality, it’s fraught with moments of intense frustration, self-doubt, and fear of inadequacy.
Natalie Morgan
When you're riding high, it feels like you're invincible. Ideas flow effortlessly, projects come together seamlessly, and recognition follows. However, these highs are often followed by periods of stagnation and creative block. It's during these lows that the fear of losing your edge creeps in. Suddenly, the things that used to come naturally feel forced. The projects that once excited you now seem mundane. The acclaim you once received feels like a distant memory.
The Emotional Impact of Losing Your Edge
The emotional impact of losing your edge as a creative cannot be overstated. It's more than just a professional setback; it's a profound personal crisis. Our creative work is often tied to our identity, so when we feel like we’ve lost our creative edge, it can feel like we’ve lost a part of ourselves.
Feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt become constant companions. You might find yourself comparing your current work to past successes, or worse, comparing yourself to others in your field who seem to be thriving. This comparison trap is particularly insidious in the age of social media, where everyone else's highlight reel is on display, making your struggles feel even more pronounced.
The loss of creative purpose can lead to a sense of isolation. You may withdraw from your creative community, feeling ashamed or embarrassed by your perceived shortcomings. This isolation only exacerbates the problem, as it cuts you off from the very support and inspiration you need to rekindle your creative fire.
The Search for Meaning and Purpose
At the heart of losing your edge is often a deeper existential crisis: the search for meaning and purpose. Creativity is not just about producing work; it’s about expressing something essential about who you are and how you see the world. When you lose touch with that essential part of yourself, the work suffers, and so does your sense of purpose.
Zara Picken
This crisis can be a catalyst for growth if approached with the right mindset. It's an opportunity to reassess your values, your goals, and what truly drives you. Are you creating for external validation, or is there a deeper, more personal reason behind your work? Reconnecting with your core motivations can help you find your way back to a place of creative authenticity.
Strategies for Taking Back Your Edge
Reclaiming your edge requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the emotional and practical aspects of the creative process. Here are some strategies to consider:
Embrace Vulnerability: Acknowledge your feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy. Talk about them with trusted friends, mentors, or a therapist. Vulnerability can be incredibly liberating and can help you see that you’re not alone in your struggles.
Take a Break: Sometimes, the best thing you can do is step away from your work. Take time to rest, recharge, and gain new perspectives. Engaging in different activities, such as traveling, reading, or exploring new hobbies, can provide fresh inspiration.
Set Small Goals: Reclaiming your edge doesn’t mean diving headfirst into a massive project. Start small. Set achievable goals that can help you rebuild your confidence and momentum.
Reconnect with Your Passion: Reflect on what initially drew you to your creative field. Revisit old projects that brought you joy and pride. Rediscovering your passion can help reignite your creative spark.
Seek Feedback: Constructive feedback from peers or mentors can provide valuable insights and help you see your work from a different perspective. It can also validate your efforts and remind you of your strengths.
Embrace Change: Sometimes, losing your edge is a sign that it’s time for a change. This could mean exploring a new medium, collaborating with others, or shifting your focus to a different aspect of your field.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Recognise that everyone goes through creative slumps and that it doesn’t define your worth as an artist. Self-compassion can help you navigate through the lows with more resilience.
Finding New Purpose
Ultimately, losing your edge can be an opportunity to find new purpose. It can prompt you to dig deeper, to challenge yourself in new ways, and to grow as both an artist and a person. It’s a reminder that creativity is not a static state but a dynamic, evolving process.
Natalie Morgan
It doesn’t mean you’ve lost your creativity. It’s a call to reconnect with what truly matters to you, to explore new avenues, and to embrace the journey with all its ups and downs. Remember, the edge isn’t a fixed line; it’s a shifting horizon that moves as you grow. Embrace the journey, and you’ll find your way back to your creative self.
Mike Fay June 3rd, in the morning
Great article, us older creative know how this feels