Whether you have a bad case of writer’s block or you’re just in a creative slump, chances are, you simply need to shake up your routine a bit, and discover some new places to find inspiration. Thinking outside the box is easier when you know where that box ends, right? But where can you find inspiration to demolish even the sturdiest of writer’s blocks? I can help! Here are 8 of the best places to find inspiration, each one guaranteed to give you a little push and a big smile.
No matter how many times I’ve read “Pride & Prejudice,” I find something new every time. When I need to be inspired, I head straight for my bookcase and grab one of my favorite books. Then I ask myself how one of my fave characters would solve the problem… channel a little Elizabeth Bennett or Katniss Everdeen and see if that helps!
Looking for something tasty for the crock pot, or a unique DIY project with that old pair of jeans? All of this and more can be found on Pinterest. Browse the site, or do a search for something specific, and you won’t be let down. Pinterest is one of my favorite places to find inspiration, especially for stuff around the house!
I just ran my first 5k, something I thought I would never be able to do… and who inspired me to get off the couch 5 weeks ago and train for it? My friend Joy. My friends inspire me all the time… and what I love about using friends as places to find inspiration is that someday, without me even knowing it, I might inspire one of them, too.
About half an hour from my house is a gorgeous stretch of beach along Lake Huron… it reminds me so much of the Pacific Ocean… and this beach is my favorite place to find inspiration. The waves help calm and distract my busy brain, giving me a clarity I can’t really find anywhere else. Nature is a fantastic place to find inspiration!
If nature just isn’t your thing, you might get inspired in the opposite place — a bustling downtown area. There’s always something to see and hear, and there are always so many other people around… no matter what you’re into, you’re bound to find inspiration here!
I am, unfortunately, of a rather competitive nature. I just can’t help it. So sometimes, when I need a little nudge (or a big kick in the pants), I’ll take a peek at what the competition is doing, and see if I can’t “fix” what I think is wrong with THEIR product or vision. Or I’ll ask them to critique my work, and ask for hints… which they’re often very willing to provide.
If you’re having a hard time solving a particular problem, as a child for help. Better yet, ask a group of children for help! Describe the problem, then ask how they would solve or fix it. You’ll be surprised just how far outside the box some of the solutions will be, and how well they’ll work! Who knew the little guys would be such a marvelous place to find inspiration, and solve problems?
Whether you’re looking for a new ‘do or a new way to let your boyfriend know how much you adore him, is there any better place to find inspiration than our blog? Our writers are experts of everything from hair and makeup to fashion and travel, and we’re always ready to answer your questions and inspire you… and if you can’t find what you’re looking for, ask! We’d love to hear from you.
With so many marvelous and diverse places to find inspiration, you might never slog through a miserable creative slump again! Every one of these has worked wonders for me, but which works best for you? Or do you have another place to find inspiration you’d like to share? Do tell!
Top Image Source: teenvogue.com