I spoke to a friend the other day and she expressed her concern over a presentation she had to give this week. She admitted that preparing wasn’t as easy as she thought. She was blocked.
“How do you manage blocks, Stacey?” She asked.
Blocks – I think we all experience them for one reason or another – whether in our writing, preparing a presentation, a work project, stale relationship or some other area of our life. The tendency, especially if working against a deadline, is to stick with what you know, even though it’s not working. That often leads to frustration and impatience. Blocks occur for different reasons. I can speak for myself when I say mine typically form out of fear. When that happens I’ve learned that it’s time for a break to relax my body and mind in order to focus, find clarity and potentially a solution or opening. Over the years, I have found the following techniques very helpful to me when working with blocks, both for myself and my clients.
Take a walk. Blood flow and endorphins are an instant mood booster. A gentle walk equals relaxation, and I can think freely and clearly again.
Get outside. While I typically enjoy a walk outside, sometimes I just need to be outside, sitting in my yard, at the beach or local park. The smell of fresh air, trees, the sound and scurry of birds and small animals transport me to a new place. It’s like I’m on a mini vacation with a smile on my face.
Write. I take pen to paper and free write the answer to, “What are you afraid of?” or “What is blocking you?” Seeing the answers on paper helps me realize these fears are not real unless I choose them to be.
Meditate. Sometimes the block is a result of “too much” going on in my head. Lots of thoughts and I crave silence. 5 to 10 minutes is often all I need to feel calm and clear.
Talk about it – Sometimes I need to connect with others and talk it through, seeking opinions or advice from someone else. I find it helpful to talk to someone who isn’t close to the project in order to provide a new perspective, idea or approach that had not crossed my mind.
Sip a glass of wine. Perhaps a bit unorthodox, but hear me out. I pour a small amount in my fun balloon shaped wine glass and sit either on my couch by the fire or on my back deck depending on the season. Often I take one sip and I’m done. There is something about the act of sitting with a glass of wine that is relaxing, inspiring and romantic, even if I don’t drink the full amount. For me, it’s more about the fun glass, the environment and the feelings elicited than the beverage itself. If wine isn’t your thing, choose something that makes sense for you.
How do you manage blocks? Do you stick with the block or give yourself a break? If you’re not used to giving yourself a break, try it next time – allow both your body and mind to relax for bit and see if anything becomes more clear. There is brilliance to be found in a bit of relaxation!
I spoke to a friend the other day and she expressed her concern over a presentation she had to give this week. She admitted that preparing wasn’t as easy as she thought. She was blocked.
“How do you manage blocks, Stacey?” She asked.
Blocks – I think we all experience them for one reason or another – whether in our writing, preparing a presentation, a work project, stale relationship or some other area of our life. The tendency, especially if working against a deadline, is to stick with what you know, even though it’s not working. That often leads to frustration and impatience. Blocks occur for different reasons. I can speak for myself when I say mine typically form out of fear. When that happens I’ve learned that it’s time for a break to relax my body and mind in order to focus, find clarity and potentially a solution or opening. Over the years, I have found the following techniques very helpful to me when working with blocks, both for myself and my clients.
Take a walk. Blood flow and endorphins are an instant mood booster. A gentle walk equals relaxation, and I can think freely and clearly again.
Get outside. While I typically enjoy a walk outside, sometimes I just need to be outside, sitting in my yard, at the beach or local park. The smell of fresh air, trees, the sound and scurry of birds and small animals transport me to a new place. It’s like I’m on a mini vacation with a smile on my face.
Write. I take pen to paper and free write the answer to, “What are you afraid of?” or “What is blocking you?” Seeing the answers on paper helps me realize these fears are not real unless I choose them to be.
Meditate. Sometimes the block is a result of “too much” going on in my head. Lots of thoughts and I crave silence. 5 to 10 minutes is often all I need to feel calm and clear.
Talk about it – Sometimes I need to connect with others and talk it through, seeking opinions or advice from someone else. I find it helpful to talk to someone who isn’t close to the project in order to provide a new perspective, idea or approach that had not crossed my mind.
Sip a glass of wine. Perhaps a bit unorthodox, but hear me out. I pour a small amount in my fun balloon shaped wine glass and sit either on my couch by the fire or on my back deck depending on the season. Often I take one sip and I’m done. There is something about the act of sitting with a glass of wine that is relaxing, inspiring and romantic, even if I don’t drink the full amount. For me, it’s more about the fun glass, the environment and the feelings elicited than the beverage itself. If wine isn’t your thing, choose something that makes sense for you.
How do you manage blocks? Do you stick with the block or give yourself a break? If you’re not used to giving yourself a break, try it next time – allow both your body and mind to relax for bit and see if anything becomes more clear. There is brilliance to be found in a bit of relaxation!