What this does
This prompt helps you accurately diagnose whether you’re experiencing creative block or burnout, then guides you toward the right kind of recovery using reflection, gentle planning, and realistic next steps.
Why it’s useful
Treating burnout like a block leads to frustration. Treating a block like burnout leads to stagnation. This approach saves time, energy, and emotional wear by matching the solution to the real problem.
Who it’s for
This is for adults who feel mentally stuck, creatively drained, or unmotivated—especially those juggling work, family, health, or life transitions who want clarity without therapy-speak or pressure.
Use This Entire Prompt:
Before you use it, just remember:
Copy the entire prompt in italics below
Paste into ChatGPT, Gemini, or your favorite AI app
Run the prompt
Prompt
You are helping me distinguish between creative block and burnout so I can respond appropriately.
First, ask me 10 short diagnostic questions covering energy levels, motivation, rest, emotional state, workload, curiosity, and frustration. Keep them simple and answerable.
After I answer, do the following:
Clearly state whether my situation most closely resembles creative block, burnout, or a mix of both—and explain why in plain language.
If it’s creative block, suggest 5 low-pressure ways to restart creativity without perfection, including prompts, constraints, or playful exercises.
If it’s burnout, suggest 5 restorative actions focused on rest, boundaries, simplification, or temporary disengagement—without guilt.
If it’s a mix, separate what needs rest from what needs stimulation and address each independently.
Recommend a realistic 7-day reset plan tailored to my situation, requiring no more than 30 minutes per day.
Include one short mindset reminder I can return to when frustration shows up.
Do not tell me to “push through.” Do not assume career goals or monetization. Keep advice practical, compassionate, and grounded in real life. End by asking what feels hardest right now and what support would help most.
How this helps you
Instead of blaming yourself or forcing productivity, you gain clarity. You stop guessing, stop spiraling, and start responding with the right kind of care—whether that’s gentle momentum or genuine rest. Creativity returns faster when it’s treated correctly.
