How to rekindle passion after burnout?

[Basman]

About 2.5 years ago I applied for an art school which required me making a large portfolio to the deadline. Most of the things they asked for where things I where unfamiliar with and had no prior material of, so I grinded away. I think I worked 6-8 hours almost everyday for 1-2 months straight or so. I managed to finish my portfolio just the day before the deadline. I had to learn as I went. I had to build the bridge as I crossed it, which only added to the workload. I got rejected for lacking skills by the way, but that is besides the point.

I was burnt out on art hard after that ordeal. I barely touched a pen for a whole year and I still only draw intermittently, even as the worst of the burnout receded. To this day, I haven't fully recovered the passion and zest I used to feel for drawing. I sometimes even question if I even like drawing, but when I do draw I generally feel a sense of elation and joy in the creative process. I just feel like I have to force myself to get there and if I do build a habit I quickly fall off again and there will go a long time till I pick the pen up again.

I've been recently thinking that I should take a break "officially" now. I have never at any point since I made that portfolio consciously decided to take a break. I just berated myself for not practicing my art, which hasn't been great for my mood either. I kind of made drawing a part of my identity, which is probably why I'm struggling so much with this and I'm scared that I actually hate drawing. 

[Karla]

Perhaps ask yourself what would be really fun and enjoyable next? Is there anything that inspires a sensation of play and lightness around creating for you? Ideas: take a class, create some limitations (draw with only one color), re-mix two favorites, read some Rick Rubin, go see your favorite artist, drastically change your environment in a pleasurable way. In my experience burnout comes from taking things too seriously without enjoying it much- so unnecessary. ♥️ 

[Basman]

15 hours ago, Karla said:

Perhaps ask yourself what would be really fun and enjoyable next? Is there anything that inspires a sensation of play and lightness around creating for you? Ideas: take a class, create some limitations (draw with only one color), re-mix two favorites, read some Rick Rubin, go see your favorite artist, drastically change your environment in a pleasurable way. In my experience burnout comes from taking things too seriously without enjoying it much- so unnecessary. ♥️ 

It is true that I took art very seriously. I haven't considered that angle.

[ryoko]

Keep art seperate from society. The first thing I did before even attempting to learn art was, purging all societal influences, and find out what "I" really wanted to create. It's very difficult, but worth it. 

Burnouts from physical exhaustion is one thing. But don't sell your soul, little by little. I can't assure you it's recoverable. 

[Basman]

11 hours ago, ryoko said:

Keep art seperate from society. The first thing I did before even attempting to learn art was, purging all societal influences, and find out what "I" really wanted to create. It's very difficult, but worth it. 

Burnouts from physical exhaustion is one thing. But don't sell your soul, little by little. I can't assure you it's recoverable. 

True.