We've all experienced it from time to time, the feeling of not being able to muster a single creative thought while working on a project. You could be faced with the task of designing an interface, coming up with new layout ideas or designing a whole new client brand, and you have completely no idea what to do!

For a designer it can be quite stressful and precious time flies by as you sit staring at a blank screen as you mind draws one blank after the other. I've experienced this and trust me it's a very dangerous place to be in.

So what possible solutions are there?

Some of the possible solutions to this dilemma can be quite simple and very easy to follow and maintain. Personally I've found solutions to some of my hardest and most difficult design related problems from using one of these methods.

1. Take some time out

This is a simple act of taking time out from the situation your faced with, try making a cup of coffee and sitting away from the computer for a while or going for a walk outside. Most of the time our mind becomes too focused on what's in front of us and we get stuck in a zone, I've found walking away and thinking about the problems away from the screen can do wonders. I remember on many occasions being away for just a few minutes and coming up with the solution right on the spot.

2. Music

The type of music you are listening to can play a significant role in how your thoughts and ideas flow during the design process. I find that music with lyrics can interfere with your creative thoughts as you are focusing part of your thoughts on the lyrics of each song. Also playing music out loud in my opinion doesn't work, this is simply because you are receiving all the background interference, things such as traffic, conversations etc interrupt your concentration. Having a pair of high quality headphones is simply the best way to focus your mind, now you can block out all outside interference and focus on a single audio signal.

The type of music I like to listen to is ambient trance music, no lyrics just lengthy tracks. The actual tracks I listen to are usually hour long non-stop tracks as I find this beneficial as I don't have to keep changing the music or wondering what to play next. A fantastic resource of great ambient trance music if you are into the same thing can be found at neverrain.com, composed by one of my favorite artists Eric Jordan. Another handy tip when using headphones is to ensure that you turn off all other sound effects from the computer and other programs, things such as chat, clicks and other computer sound effects just don't need to be heard.

3. Driving

My usual travel time to work is around 30 minutes, it used to be longer. What I'd typically do on the way to and home from work is to think about the tasks that I currently have going, I've had some really amazing ideas while driving and solved many issues as well. After a long day at the office I'd still keep the ideas flowing driving home. Some people don't think about their work until they get to work or simply shut off at the end of each day, the thing is design is happening all around us. You never know when you'll pass something really thought provoking that will totally inspire you.

4. Reference Material

This depends on what you are working on whether its fashion, food, architecture, sports etc go and find magazines or books with photos and images similar to what you are working on. Spark your imagination into life! It's all about immersing yourself in the project and enjoying yourself, photos and images each tell a story. Camera angles, colours, shapes and lighting effects can give you some amazing ideas on creating a stunning interface design.

5. Meditation

Cleansing your mind and emptying out all the clutter is a great way to refocus your mindset and clear your mind of unwanted thoughts. Give yourself 10-15 minutes of total peace and quite each day, block out all thoughts and outside interference. At times your mind can become overloaded with all sorts of things; these things can interfere and block your creative mind from working efficiently. This is a simple exercise that requires no physical activity, just close your eyes and block out everything and remain this way for 10-15 minutes. Your mind needs a recharge every now and then.

6. Workspace

The area in which you work can dictate your mood and have an impact on your thought patterns. A messy desk with paper and clutter everywhere doesn't really inspire much. Stick photos of your favorite websites up all around you, place funky ornaments here and there, have a pile of creative magazines handy and have a giant sketch pad for quick ideas. Convert your workspace into a creative hub of inspiration! A typical workspace should still be clean and organized but should also be a place that you enjoy and look forward to each day, after all you are there 5 days a week! Give yourself plenty of room to work and move about, organize the cables so that they are at a minimum and keep a good safe posture throughout the day.

7. Visualize a Brand

A great way that I've found to keep your creative thoughts processing is when you are out and about, look around at some of the brands you can see on billboards, offices, shops, vehicles etc and try to imagine what you would do for them if they were your client. It's a great way to come up with new ideas and can help you on existing projects as well. You should try and do this at least once a day, try it you'll be amazed at how useful it can be.

In conclusion I have found all these methods to be really effective and helpful throughout my day to day activities, if your thoughts and mindset are in tune and focused then you will find that creative ideas will come thick and fast!

If you have any more ideas on you deal with the dreaded "Design Block" feel free to send me any of your tips or methods you may have.