#1: Creating in a vacuum
The most challenging part of any creative endeavour for me is getting started.
Often, I find myself at my computer, attempting to conjure up a brilliant idea while resisting the temptation to switch to the YouTube tab in my browser.
The issue was that I was both the creator and the observer. This is akin to a science experiment where the results are affected by the presence of an observer.
Now, I let ideas come to me when I'm not actively seeking them. To achieve this, I keep my mind engaged with something that requires just enough effort to prevent overthinking, but not so much that it inhibits free thought. The following activities work wonders for me:
Cleaning while listening to music or a podcast
Showering
Walking while listening to music or podcasts
This balance of input (the music or podcast) and output (a low effort task) cultivates a mental environment conducive to idea generation. I'm stimulated enough to prevent over-observation of my thoughts, yet not so much that my mind can't wander to exciting new places.