Must Read for Curing the Creative Block

cover of Jumpstart Your Creative Engine

Hey there! If you're feeling a little stuck in your creative process and in need of some inspiration, I've got just the book for you. It's called "Jumpstart Your Creative Engine" by the talented artist Shannon Christianson.

I personally purchased this book almost a year ago, and let me tell you, it has been a game-changer for me. I've gone through it three times already, and with each read-through, I've unraveled new layers of information and insights.

What sets this book apart is Shannon's unique approach. She seamlessly weaves in scientific and academic research about creativity, which deepens your understanding of the subject. But don't worry, she doesn't leave you hanging with just theory. Shannon provides practical exercises and tools that will help you implement the knowledge she shares. Not only is the book well written and full of ideas, but it is also beautifully illustrated with Shannon’s floral illustrations.

From the moment you start reading, you'll find yourself captivated by Shannon's friendly and relatable writing style. It's like having a conversation with a trusted friend who truly understands the struggles and joys of the creative process.

The book is divided into sections, each tackling a different tool or exercise for jumpstarting your creativity. Shannon shares eight tools overcoming creative blocks and nurturing your unique artistic voice. Her guidance is both insightful and encouraging, making you feel like you have a cheerleader cheering you on throughout your creative journey.

Shannon goes in depth on her eight creative power habits:

1.     The idea book:  Capture and honor your ideas

I love this idea of always keeping a small notebook with you to jot thoughts, sketch out patterns, note a color that speaks to you, whatever you don’t want to forget. She covers best practices, ideas for how to keep your thoughts organized and visual, as well as other famous artists and thinkers that religiously keep an idea journal.

2.     Think Tank – Tap into and get flexible with your plastic brain

This section gets into the nitty gritty science of brain waves and how we think at different levels. da me understand how I use convergent and divergent thinking in different ways to solve creative problems.

3.     Sketchbook – Learn, increase and expand your visual literacy

Seems like a no brainer for the creative – right? But I will tell you, this was one of the most powerful sections to help me get over my fear of the blank page. Genius!

4.     Play-osity – Get permission to adult play, ask questions get curious, experiment

Such a fun idea here – as adults we don’t often play and take risks doing new things. This part of the book encourages you to try new experiences and play, all this leads to new creative thoughts and ability to embrace new ideas.

5.     X-X-O – Explore, experience, observe through field trips, first times and memories

Ah – here is an area that I still struggle to implement. How many of your have a daily routine or rut? In this section, Shannon encourages exploration and outings! Get our and explore, and then when you do – really be present and experience and observe. This is where new creative ideas generate.

6.     Superpowers – clarify and verify through audits your combined abilities and originality

Time to really assess everything that goes into your creative life, from skills and strengths to your supplies and space. Where do you need a little improvement to get where you want to go?

7.     Vision – Get a big picture, see possibilities and face the challenges.

What is your vision for your creative life? Shannon covers the idea of a Vision Bridge – connecting dreams with reality.

8.     Show and Share – Value community to critique, collaborate and celebrate.

In the final section you delve into the immense importance of community and surrounding yourself with other like-minded creatives – this I think is one of the most neglected, yet most important parts of nurturing a creative life. Creative peers keep us honest and hold us up when we need it most.

So, if you're looking to jumpstart your creative engine and breathe new life into your artistic journey, I highly recommend picking up "Jumpstart Your Creative Engine" by Shannon Christianson. Trust me, you won't be disappointed. Happy creating!

xo ~kari