Take A Break To Beat Creative Block. - research by Creative Group Menlo Park, California - Brief Article

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), Nov, 2000

Even if you don't deserve a break today, it may be wise to take one. In a survey of advertising executives developed by The Creative Group, a Menlo Park, Calif.-based national staffing service providing marketing, advertising, creative, and web professionals on a project basis, 36% said time out from work is the best way to avoid a creative block.

"When scheduling a project, building in time for periodic diversions can keep creative expression flowing and increase productivity," maintains Liz Hubler, executive director of The Creative Group. "To encourage their employees to take a recess, some companies, particularly those in which employees regularly work extended hours, are providing on-site amenities such as game rooms, gyms, and nap areas."

In addition to taking a break from a project, the following advice for preventing a creative impasse was offered by advertising executives:

* "Change the music and colors in your work environment to keep it creative."

* "Think out loud. Talk to yourself."

* "Write down every idea, whether you use it or not."

* "Maintain a good sense of humor and engage in laughter."

* "Take in as many cultures and trends as you can and draw from them."

* "Don't allow interruptions. Just turn off the phone."

* "Allow time for personal rejuvenation. Spend time on outside hobbies and interests."

* "Start a project well in advance and stay one step ahead of the game."

* "Keep your mind open at all times, avoiding parameters."

* "Have a solid strategy and sufficient information to solve the problem from the start."

* "Be courageous. Don't fear anything; just dig into it."