You know me, I LOVE doing DIY projects! It’s that initial spark of an idea that transforms into a creative process of planning with trial and error. I cannot get enough! There is just something about creating something yourself and letting the creative juices flow. It is my happy place. While I do LOVE all types of projects, the process isn’t always easy. It is easy to get stuck or frustrated during the stages of the project especially when you are trying something new. The key is knowing how to get unstuck on a DIY project.
4 Stages of a Project
When going through a project there are a few different stages. The beginning and ending stages are really fun. It’s where the creative process takes shape. The middle spots are where I tend to get frustrated and feel stuck. It’s really easy to do.
Stage 1: Spark of an Idea
Stage 2: Getting to Work
Stage 3: Questioning the Project
Stage 4: Finishing Details
Stage 1: Spark of an Idea
The beginning stages of a project are so exciting! You get an idea and start visualizing the project and how it will look in your home. I remember this stage so clearly when I was planning out the faux beams for my dining room. I saw a picture in a magazine and HAD TO HAVE the look. I started researching and planning and the rest is history.
Stage 2: Getting to Work
Once you’ve got your idea, the working stage begins. This stage is also super exciting. You start gathering supplies, maybe do a bit more research, and your dreams start coming to life. If you have been hanging out with me for a while, you know that this is when my hat comes out and is lovingly worn backwards because it’s business time. It is like I always say, STOP PINNING. START DOING.
Stage 3: Questioning the Project
Once you have been working on a project for a while, things get a little less glamorous. This is where the hard frustrating work happens. It is so tempting to want to quit. Even regret that you started chasing that DIY dream, but you just have to find a way to get unstuck. The messy middles of a project always make the end result even better.
Stage 4: Finishing Details
This last stage is where everything pays off! The countless hours of hard work and frustrations take shape into the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen. When I hand painted the quote wall in my garage it took me around 20 hours to finish. I still get the excited butterflies looking at that project, but it did take a while. The last details of the project made everything come to life and reminded me that I can “trust the magic of new beginnings.”
How to get Unstuck on a DIY Project
In any stage of a DIY project it is common to feel stuck. I’ve built my business and my home doing DIY. But, even after all of my year’s building, crafting, and painting I still get stuck. I totally understand how frustrating it can be. So what are we going to do about it? Don’t worry. We’ve got this! There are some simple tips that can help you when you feel stuck on a project.
Take a Breather
Sometimes the best thing you can do is walk away for a bit. You may be thinking, “Ang, my project still has to get done.” I totally get it! I’m not talking about a year long break or anything. Getting some space and clearing your head can give you the break you need. Usually, when I come back to a project I am way less frustrated and have renewed excitement that helps motivate me to finish. Plus, no matter how much time you take, your project is still going to be there waiting for you to feel inspired again. So go ahead and do it, take that breather.
Figure Out What is Stopping You
Give yourself a chance to figure out what is making you feel stuck. It could be a skill you don’t feel like you have that is making it hard to move forward. Or maybe you are wishing you had a whole workshop full of every tool imaginable. Once you identify what is getting in your way, you can address it and move forward.
Stay Positive
This is going to be hard to hear when you are frustrated, but staying positive is your secret weapon. Every project has a hard phase. I’ve been there so many times. But, trying to stay positive even in the hard phases of your project helps keep you going. When you are stuck is it really easy to spiral into a negative space where you tear down your initial ideas. Fight the urge and don’t do it! Don’t put down your ideas because they are amazing! After all, your ideas are what inspired you to stop pinning and start doing.
Saying to be positive is one thing, but how are we going to actually do it? Let me tell you, we are going to find a solution! You can do this in a few different ways. Try researching the type of project you are doing. Can you look at other people’s projects and see how they moved through the stage that is tripping you up?
You could also ask for input from those around you or from people who have tackled the type of project you are doing. You can always send me a message at @angelarosehome and I will do my best to help. You are always cheering me on, I want to do the same for you!
Revisit Your Vision
Revisit why you wanted to start your project in the first place. What inspired you? Was it creating a space for your kids to play in? Were you inspired by a magazine picture like I was for my dining room? Are you dying to have storage without spending a fortune?
Revisiting your inspiration and remembering why you started can help get you through the tough times in a project. It gives you the motivation to keep pushing through the hard phases so that you can enjoy your creative vision.
How to Get Unstuck on a DIY Project
Take a deep breath. You’ve got this! I know you do. I know these tips on how to get unstuck on a DIY project will get you moving on your project again. Don’t forget to tag me @angelarosehome in your reveal post. I love seeing your creativity and the DIY projects you are tackling. If you need any other inspiration during your DIYs, make sure you are following along on Instagram and TikTok. I am always sharing my latest DIY projects.
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