We all have those moments when inspiration is lacking. Whether you’re trying to come up with new campaign ideas, designing content, or writing ad copy, you’ve reached a point where you’re feeling stuck.
How do we make a splash in our work when the spark of creativity isn’t there? As a Project Coordinator for Cannonball Digital, these are my top five favorite creativity tips for marketing.
1. Journal
As much as we promise ourselves that we’ll start journaling, do we really mean it? Journaling is more than just a therapeutic hobby. It lets us have a healthy outlet to let go of what’s holding us back and keep that drive going.
Some journal prompts can be:
- What are 3 things you’re grateful for?
- When was the last time you went out of your comfort zone, and how did you grow?
- What is holding me back?
- What is pushing me forward?
Cracking open the journal to let your thoughts flow can also help you come up with new ideas. There’s nothing more intimidating than seeing an empty page! Start writing and come up with your next big thing.
2. Go Outside
Or what the kids like to say, “touch some grass.” Have you ever gotten done with a walk and said, “What a waste of time, never again.” I’d guess probably not.
In Jill Suttie’s blog, she mentioned the idea of attention fatigue and its effect on the world we live in. This is because we are on devices that drain us of our attention, and can even lead to burnout. With outdoor time, you can boost your creativity as a marketer and get some fresh air.
A personal example is walking down to Falls Park to see the beautiful rock formations and enjoy the city views along the way. I also enjoy finding a nice bench to read a book at or even pop open my journal, which leads me to my next point.
3. Treat Yourself
Who doesn’t love treating themselves? Whether it’s a cookie next door or going to the coffee shop down the street, find something that helps you reset.
You could also use it as an incentive to do something. Have a few media plans to get through? Try doing one more and giving yourself a treat so you can have a mini break, and keep going after that!
Let’s say I have a bunch of emails waiting for me, and I’m craving a walk outside and a sweet treat from Mary’s Mountain Cookies. I can give myself the incentive that if I go through each email and respond to or take action on all of them, I’ll get a cookie! Other times, I might start my day at Queen City Bakery for a quick treat before I head into the office.
It works like a charm, and continues my motivation to do more throughout the day!
4. Light the Fire
To connect this to one of our core values, learn something new! Whether it’s marketing-related, AI updates, or completely different, such as what books should be in your next read. Learning is a fun way to refresh your brain with new ideas!
There are a few ways to slip in some learning moments into your day:
- Subscribing to a newsletter that contains new ideas and overall new information to learn about.
- Listening to a podcast during your downtime.
- Read a book, whether it’s marketing-related or about someone who inspires you.
Lighting the fire keeps that marketer mind of yours to spark some thoughts and keep the cannonball rolling!
Check out our blog to stay up to date on marketing insights and help light your creative spark.
5. Talk to Someone
Not everything needs to be done alone! Collaborate with various teams to generate new ideas or gain fresh perspectives. Bouncing ideas off each other can help overcome creative block.
Even if you talk to someone unrelated to marketing to get your mind off the block, you can have a refreshing conversation. You could even get a fresh point of view from a friend!
How is Creativity Used in Marketing?
Creativity doesn’t always flow easily, but by trying these five resets, you can keep your creative juices flowing and create the next big thing! Creativity isn’t just being able to draw or being super artistic. It’s about creative problem solving, figuring out how to stand out from the crowd, and making a memorable or innovative way to connect with your clients and/or audience.
Creativity is what drives us to big ideas and making a splash!
If you’re looking for fresh, creative marketing strategies, our team at Cannonball Digital is here to help.