Working Through a Creative Block as a Queer Content Creator: Tips to Get Inspired Again

Creative blocks can be challenging, especially when you’re passionate about sharing your voice as a queer creator. Whether you’re writing comedy, crafting social media content, or performing, hitting a wall can feel frustrating and disheartening. But remember: creative blocks are normal, and they don’t mean you’re “out of ideas” or any less talented. Instead, they’re a signal to try a fresh approach.

Here are some strategies to help you break through a creative block, recharge your inspiration, and get back to creating with renewed energy and purpose.

1. Reconnect with Your “Why”

Sometimes, we get so focused on producing content that we lose sight of why we started creating in the first place. Take a step back and reconnect with what made you want to be a creator. Was it a desire to share your unique perspective, make people laugh, or bring representation to topics you care about?

Write down your reasons for creating and revisit them whenever you’re feeling blocked. Remembering your purpose can reignite your passion and shift your focus from “What should I make?” to “Why do I love making this?” This mindset shift often opens up new ideas and helps you create from a place of authenticity.

2. Draw Inspiration from Your Community

One of the best things about being a queer content creator is the vibrant, diverse community around us. When you’re feeling stuck, look to your community for inspiration. Follow other LGBTQ+ creators who make you feel seen, attend local queer events, or engage in conversations with friends and peers. Sometimes, simply being in a space where others are sharing their voices can spark fresh ideas and remind you of the unique perspective you bring to the table.

If you find inspiration in someone else’s work, take note of what moves you. It’s not about copying their style or approach; it’s about exploring what resonates and using it as a jumping-off point for your own creativity.

3. Take the Pressure Off and Create Just for Fun

When you’re feeling blocked, sometimes the best thing you can do is take the pressure off yourself. As creators, we often feel the need to produce perfect content for an audience, but that pressure can stifle creativity. Try creating something just for fun, without any plans to share it.

Write a silly monologue, doodle, make a random TikTok, or even record a voice memo about an idea you’ve been mulling over. Giving yourself permission to experiment without expectations can bring back the joy of creating. Often, when you’re not trying to force an idea, inspiration sneaks up on you.

4. Challenge Yourself to Explore New Topics or Mediums

One reason for creative blocks is getting too comfortable with familiar subjects or formats. If you’re always writing stand-up, try storytelling or poetry. If you usually make reels, explore short stories or blog posts. Pushing yourself to try something different forces your brain to think in new ways, which can help shake loose fresh ideas.

As a queer creator, don’t be afraid to dig into new themes or aspects of your identity that you haven’t explored before. You might discover a whole new layer to your voice that resonates deeply with your audience. Whether it’s a new topic or a new format, trying something different can help reignite your creative energy.

5. Engage with Content That Isn’t Your Own

Sometimes, a break from creating is the best way to unblock your creativity. Watch your favorite movie, read a book, go to an art exhibit, or listen to a podcast. Engaging with other forms of art, especially ones outside your usual style, can open your mind to new perspectives, ideas, and storytelling techniques.

Taking a step back allows your brain to relax and re-energize. Often, while you’re enjoying something completely unrelated, an idea will hit, or a new angle on a project will pop into your mind. Remember, creativity doesn’t happen in isolation—it’s fueled by the world around us.

6. Use Prompts or Challenges to Spark New Ideas

Creative prompts are fantastic for jumpstarting ideas when you’re feeling stuck. Try daily prompts related to themes like identity, community, or humor. Some creators even set up their own “creative challenges,” like posting a short video every day or writing a new joke daily.

If you’re feeling ambitious, you could also try joining a public challenge, like #Inktober (for artists) or #30DaysOfJokes (for comedians). These challenges push you to create consistently, whether or not you’re feeling inspired. By building the habit of creating, you often break through blocks and gain new insights on what drives your creativity.

7. Try to Make Something “Bad” on Purpose

When you’re blocked, perfectionism can often be the root cause. If you’re struggling to create, give yourself permission to make something “bad” on purpose. Write the worst joke you can think of, sketch something silly, or record a rough, unpolished video.

The point isn’t to create something amazing—it’s to remind yourself that not everything has to be perfect. Often, by removing the pressure to “get it right,” you’ll find yourself more relaxed and open to creative possibilities. Ironically, this can lead to some of your best ideas, because you’re allowing yourself to take risks and explore freely.

8. Get Moving in Your Body

Sometimes, a physical reset can unblock mental creativity. Go for a walk, dance around, hit the gym, or do some stretching. Physical movement shifts your energy, allowing your brain to relax and regroup. Exercise increases endorphins, which can improve your mood and spark fresh ideas.

Stepping away from your workspace and getting out in nature or doing a favorite workout can clear your mind and create the space for new thoughts to come in. When you’re feeling creatively blocked, getting out of your head and into your body can do wonders for opening up your inspiration.

9. Practice Self-Compassion and Self-Care

Creative blocks can make us feel down on ourselves, but self-compassion is essential for moving through them. Remind yourself that blocks are temporary, and they don’t define you as a creator. Creative ruts are a sign that you’re growing, pushing yourself, and trying to say something meaningful.

Taking care of yourself physically and mentally—whether it’s getting enough rest, eating well, or finding moments to decompress—can help you feel refreshed and more energized. Pairing self-compassion with self-care helps build resilience, allowing you to approach your work with curiosity and patience.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Block as Part of the Process

Creative blocks may feel daunting, but they’re also a valuable part of the creative process. They challenge us to dig deeper, try new things, and reconnect with our purpose. By viewing blocks as opportunities for growth, you can turn a frustrating moment into one that ultimately strengthens your voice and perspective as a queer creator.

For more insights on breaking through creative blocks and embracing the ups and downs of the creative journey, follow along on Instagram @RenQComedy. Because every step of the journey—even the blocks—brings us closer to creating work that truly matters.