There are days when the creative juices just aren't flowing, no matter how hard you try to squeeze.
When that happens, and I know that it's not because I'm tired, either mentally or physically, I have to switch it up.
I go into input mode, reading, watching interesting videos about topics I'm not familiar with, following conversations online, etc.
And it's very easy to get stuck in that mode, so I have to consciously check every now and then if I'm ready to create again.
And then, it's back to coming up with more new things.
Creative Businesses Are Still Businesses. Some Things Will Never Be Ideal.
I've learned a couple of things about creative businesses:
1) Never fall too much in love with what you create.
Though your clients may like what you do, they don't see, hear, feel like you.
At the end of the day, if they're paying, they'll want certain things their way.
2) Your work is worth what you think it's worth.
But if potential clients cannot or will not pay that, you have a problem. And you may be tempted to lower your prices.
This depends on you. If you're okay with it, and won't begrudge the lowered amount, then don't let anyone tell you that it's wrong to do so.
3) It will take time for you to be "discovered".
And it will help tremendously if you put yourself out there.
Some creatives may think that they will be sellouts if they go into the "debased" world of marketing, wheeling and dealing instead of coming up with new ideas and art.
But the only person who can truly represent what you do is you. And nobody will know what you're doing, no matter how good it is, if nobody ever sees or hears about it.
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If you're not willing to do the non-creative work or change the way you deal with potential clients, it will be better to keep your creative activities a personal interest or hobby.
That way, you continue to enjoy it for what it is, and never have to worry about "making money" out of it.
And that's fine, too.