Last updated on Aug 20, 2024

How do you cope with creative blocks or frustration in your SEL work?

If you work in the field of social emotional learning (SEL), you know how important it is to foster creativity, empathy, and resilience in yourself and others. But sometimes, you may face challenges that block your creative flow or trigger frustration and stress. How do you cope with these situations and maintain your SEL skills? Here are some tips to help you overcome creative blocks and frustration in your SEL work.

1 Identify the source

The first step to cope with creative blocks or frustration is to identify the source of the problem. Is it a lack of time, resources, feedback, or inspiration? Is it a personal issue, a professional conflict, or a systemic barrier? Is it a temporary setback or a chronic condition? By naming the source, you can clarify your goals, expectations, and needs, and look for possible solutions.

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Tracy Foels, LMHCA

Online Therapy in WA | Children 8+ |Adults | Anxiety | Burnout & Stress | Chronic Health Conditions | Grief & Life Transitions
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One of the common frustrations to Social Emotional Learning in schools is that educators have to meet many expectations on their time throughout the day. Keeping this in mind helped us to focus on intentionally integrating SEL into other instruction. The same can apply to families at home. Caregivers and parents have much to juggle and balance and finding SEL tools that can be incorporated into the day routine make it easier. For example, read books to read as a family that incorporate social emotional learning and have intentional discussions.

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Dana Vincent

Educational Consultant. Special Education Subject Matter Expert.
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In my experience, the source has always been multilayered. I have experienced lack of resources combined with professional conflict that was becoming a systemic barrier. I have also experienced a personal issue exacerbating what was a temporary setback. Creative blocks and frustration rarely have a singular trigger. No matter the source, something that I find helpful is finding opportunities to see my work in action. For example, I may take the opportunity to talk to students about what coping skills felt most effective to them following a test. I may have a conversation with a colleague to learn what they think I can add or expand upon in upcoming lessons. Seeing increased EI in action helps to recharge my proverbial batteries.

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2 Use self-care strategies

The second step to cope with creative blocks or frustration is to use self-care strategies to manage your emotions and energy. This may include taking breaks, breathing exercises, meditation, physical activity, hobbies, or social support. Self-care can help you reduce stress, boost your mood, and restore your motivation and creativity. It can also help you practice the SEL competencies of self-awareness, self-management, and relationship skills.

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3 Seek feedback and collaboration

The third step to cope with creative blocks or frustration is to seek feedback and collaboration from others who share your SEL vision and values. This may include colleagues, mentors, peers, or clients. Feedback and collaboration can help you gain new perspectives, insights, and ideas, as well as validation, encouragement, and support. They can also help you practice the SEL competencies of social awareness and responsible decision-making.

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4 Experiment and learn

The fourth step to cope with creative blocks or frustration is to experiment and learn from your experiences. This may include trying new methods, tools, or formats, challenging yourself with different tasks or audiences, or revising or adapting your existing work. Experimenting and learning can help you discover new possibilities, improve your skills, and grow from your mistakes. They can also help you practice the SEL competencies of growth mindset and self-efficacy.

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5 Celebrate and share

The fifth step to cope with creative blocks or frustration is to celebrate and share your achievements and challenges. This may include acknowledging your efforts, progress, and outcomes, rewarding yourself with something meaningful, or showcasing your work to others who appreciate it. Celebrating and sharing can help you increase your satisfaction, confidence, and recognition, as well as inspire others with your SEL work. They can also help you practice the SEL competencies of gratitude and empathy.

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6 Reflect and plan

The sixth step to cope with creative blocks or frustration is to reflect and plan for your future SEL work. This may include evaluating your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, identifying your goals, priorities, and actions, or seeking feedback and collaboration for improvement. Reflecting and planning can help you learn from your past, prepare for your present, and envision your future. They can also help you practice the SEL competencies of self-regulation and problem-solving.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How do you cope with creative blocks or frustration in your SEL work?

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1 Identify the source

2 Use self-care strategies

3 Seek feedback and collaboration

4 Experiment and learn

5 Celebrate and share

6 Reflect and plan

7 Here’s what else to consider

Social Emotional Learning

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