An uplifted lockdown: your tips for motivation

As part of our Keep Making and Creating campaign during the Coronavirus lockdown, we asked our Instagram followers how they’re keeping motivated in this challenging time.

Taking a break from your practice to simply ‘be’ or re-charge is something that can benefit us all, equally so can using creativity and art as an outlet.

If you’re looking for new ways to kick-start creative working, check out these illustrations by MA Communication Design student Charlotte Johnston.

Letting creativity flow without controlling it

Letting your creativity flow, even if it’s in something that isn’t related to your practice; playing with playdoh, cooking or creative writing is a great way to find your creative flow.

Artwork Archive state that this should be a no-pressure activity.

Talk about what you’re working on

Chat to a friend, family member, housemate or colleague about what you’re working on. 

Sitting outside in the sun whilst working

Psychology Today advise that ‘nature acts like a reboot for the overloaded brain’, getting some Vitamin D and fresh air will help stimulate the mind.

Several of our followers mentioned they’re either sitting outside in the sun whilst working or trying to sit by a window and then writing or drawing what they see.

Jogging in the morning

One follower told us they start their day with jogging in the morning. Research suggests regular exercise helps drive creatively. Please do make sure you’re following the government guidelines on exercise during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Indulge in music and take breaks

There are a whole heap of inspirational playlists on Spotify, and we even have our own motivational playlist. 

A follower also suggested listening to music and taking breaks from your screens helps to motivate them.

Just read

One follower said they’re spending time reading, either art or non-related books. 

The World Literacy Foundation confirms that stepping into another world in a book enhances your imagination. 

If you’re an NUA student you can get access to thousands of e-books, and currently the  NUA Library are putting together a virtual bookshelf regularly.