Inspiration can be a tricky thing. Some days I feel more inspired than others. But I’ve found there are a few ways to jump start my inspiration and motivate me.
1. Emptying my mind – This seems counter intuitive, but it definitely works. Why do you think your best ideas come in the car or shower? If I’m stuck on something I’ll sit quietly for a few minutes and focus on my breathing or watch the cars drive by outside my window. Turning on some music or the TV for a little bit helps, too. Anything to get my mind off of what I’m working on, so I can come back to it with fresh eyes.
2. Looking at other designers’ work – Obviously not to copy them, but to see what else is out there. Sometimes my mind can get stuck on one concept, and I need to take a minute to look around and see the other many techniques.
3. Looking around my environment – There are so many shapes and textures in nature that can provide inspiration. Everything around you can be intriguing if you slow down and take a look: tree leaves, rays of sun light, the grain of the wood on the deck, etc.
4. Brainstorming and word association – This is one of the fastest ways for me to come up with a good idea. There are many ways to do it; I like to write lists. I start with one key word and write down anything that comes to mind, whether it’s stupid or not. Letting my mind flow freely and putting it all down on paper helps me find creative solutions.
I think the key element between these is to not force creativity or inspiration. You have to let it come to you. Trying too hard and getting stressed out will only make matters worse and stifle creativity.
