Take a Breather

As designers, we tend to get caught in a cycle of constant creation, because of how much love we have for what we do. We move from project to project, translating creative concepts into tangible digital products. Our innovative juices flow freely as we pull inspiration, jam, wireframe, design, refine, and deliver the finished work to clients. But just as athletic performance depends on rest and recovery between workouts, our creative brains also need a break to recharge.

Research shows that time spent letting the mind wander without conscious focus allows unique connections to form between ideas. This incubation period often sparks "eureka" moments of sudden insight and clarity. In a sense, stepping away is when our subconscious creative process can happen most effectively. Have you ever had a lightning bolt of inspiration in the shower or while walking your dog?

That's no coincidence—it's the result of giving your brain space for random connections.

Though it may feel counterintuitive to "slack off," understand that you'll return with renewed mental clarity, focus, and creative energy by giving your mind a chance to reboot away from work. A few days untethered from Figma, Adobe, or Webflow clears away the clutter of daily tasks, allowing you to access the deeper wells of your imagination.

Creative work follows a natural rhythm between intense effort and restorative rest. Regular vacations, entirely disconnected from the daily grind, enhance your work's overall quality and innovation. Go offline and let your mind wander without an agenda—whether it's a weekend camping trip or lounging on the beach with fiction novels. This distraction-free time works wonders.

Time spent in nature boosts creativity and problem-solving skills more than in urban environments (Sorry, City-lover). So get out and go seek some greenery! Unstructured playtime activities like painting, ping-pong, and making music allow your brain to make novel connections.

Trust that your best ideas may arrive precisely when you stop trying so hard—far away from Figma.

Your brain and your next client project will benefit tremendously. Just keep a notebook handy to jot down your inspirations while on your creative retreat!

Inhale! Exhale!