Seven ways to find possible sources of creative inspiration. | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Lifestyle

7 Tips for Finding Creative Inspiration

A compilation of ideas to help spark the imagination, specifically when faced with a creative block.

27
7 Tips for Finding Creative Inspiration

In This Article:

Regardless of our level experience, level of creativity, or form of expression; it is well known within the artistic communities that writing and art "blocks" is an unavoidable, and even defining an aspect of the practice. While to a degree they are simply signs of being human, it is also important to understand the tremendous strain which these mental obstacles can cause. Not to mention how to break out of the artistic slumps they are prone to promote. Here are 7 ways to help accelerate creative thought, and keep the inspiration pumping.

1. Experience and appreciate daily life.

Giphy

Many people can become disinterested in the "mundane" world around them, but by taking the time to savor the enjoyable details of your daily routine, one can revitalize their sense of creativity and inspiration. For instance, certain colors and scents that you might have grown accustomed to can sometimes spark a creative line of thinking. A particularly unique sentence spoken by a friend can prompt newfound ingenuity as well.

2. Travel the world.

Giphy

While this may seem like a rather overplayed piece of advice, gathering new experiences and meeting new people can really set the scene for a burst of inspiration. However, if the "world" is a little out of your reach, then exploring an unfamiliar part of town can be just as effective adventure.

3. Explore nature.

Giphy

Similar to experiencing different cultures, there are many ways in which one could find inspiration by immersing themselves in nature. From amazing wildlife, beautiful views, and freedom from large crowds; there is little which couldn't inspire a person.

4. Sleeping and dreaming.

Giphy

To many people (especially the creative types) a healthy sleep schedule may seem unobtainable or even laughable. Yet new ideas and ways of thinking are oftentimes directly linked to our dreams, or how well rested our mind is. That is not to say that pulling an all-nighter (or a few) cannot get those creative juices flowing just as well, but a few too many can negatively affect your health. So while the "full eight hours" may not be possible for everyone, naps are a perfectly respectful option as well.

5. Research topics you enjoy.

Giphy

Even though it may seem obvious, researching itself can often spark the fires of inspiration. While many jump to the Internet for further information of any genre or topic, there are other equally as effective mediums for aiding the creative process such as books, statistic and news archives, museums, and nature and wildlife conservatories. Regardless of the means in which you conduct your studies, the simple process of searching for inspiration can in itself promote creativity and inspiration for whatever project you are working on. So if you get stuck and can't find anything that inspires you, don't overlook the benefits of some good detective work. Also maybe try looking beyond your general area of interest; for instance, if you usually write futuristic science fiction, researching ancient history or obscure music could inspire interesting connections for plot twists or world building.

6. Take time for yourself.

Giphy

When there is the pressure of a deadline, or even just our own sense of urgency to create, artists and writers often neglect their own personal needs for general enjoyment, when considered outside of their creative processes. The cost of this habit, often being their drive or inspiration for the next project they attempt. Then creative blocks set in, and they further put off "unnecessary" pastimes. However, what we as creatives choose to do in our free time, is often what inspires our art or writing; and it is the comfort we receive during a relaxed period which allows us to break through creative blocks and become inspired once more. So if ever you lose your inspiration or drive to create, perhaps try taking a break and watching one of your favorite movies, listening to your favorite music, or reading one of your favorite books. Play some video games, a board game (Monopoly can certainly get the emotion's high), or even a card game (UNO can sometimes have the same affect). The point being, do something that you enjoy for the sake of enjoyment. Have fun, inspiration should follow.

7. Be active within your creative community.

Giphy

Finally, the next best place to find inspiration is outside of yourself. Look to others in your creative community, confide and share with one another; of both your victories and struggles. Take and give constructive criticism, as well as share ideas and techniques. Rely on the experience of those in your field, and look to their work to inspire your own. Not as a form of plagiarism, but as a way of reawakening the thrill of creation; wherein the product made thereafter, is unique to you.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
girl with a hat

This is for the girls who have dealt with an emotionally, mentally, physically or verbally abusive father.

The ones who have grown up with a false lens of what love is and how relationships should be. The ones who have cried themselves to sleep wondering why he hurts you and your family so much. This is for all the girls who fall in love with broken boys that carry baggage bigger than their own, thinking it's their job to heal them because you watched your mother do the same.

Keep Reading...Show less
Blair Waldorf Quote
"DESTINY IS FOR LOSERS. IT'S JUST A STUPID EXCUSE TO WAIT FOR THINGS TO HAPPEN INSTEAD OF MAKING THEM HAPPEN." - BLAIR WALDORF.

The world stopped in 2012 when our beloved show "Gossip Girl" ended. For six straight years, we would all tune in every Monday at 9:00 p.m. to see Upper Eastside royalty in the form of a Burberry headband clad Blair Waldorf. Blair was the big sister that we all loved to hate. How could we ever forget the epic showdowns between her and her frenemy Serena Van Der Woodsen? Or the time she banished Georgina Sparks to a Christian summer camp? How about that time when she and her girls took down Bart Bass? Blair is life. She's taught us how to dress, how to be ambitious, and most importantly, how to throw the perfect shade.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

11 Moments Every College Freshman Has Experienced

Because we made it, and because high school seniors deserve to know what they're getting themselves into

171
too tired to care

We've all been there. From move-in day to the first finals week in college, your first term is an adventure from start to finish. In honor of college decisions coming out recently, I want to recap some of the most common experiences college freshmen experience.

1. The awkward hellos on move-in day.

You're moving your stuff onto your floor, and you will encounter people you don't know yet in the hallway. They live on your floor, so you'll awkwardly smile and maybe introduce yourself. As you walk away, you will wonder if they will ever speak to you again, but don't worry, there's a good chance that you will make some great friends on your floor!

Keep Reading...Show less
laptop
Unsplash

The college years are a time for personal growth and success. Everyone comes in with expectations about how their life is supposed to turn out and envision the future. We all freak out when things don't go exactly as planned or when our expectations are unmet. As time goes on, we realize that the uncertainty of college is what makes it great. Here are some helpful reminders about life in college.

Keep Reading...Show less
students
rowanuniversitypublications / Flickr

1. "If I'm wearing black tomorrow, it's because I'm mourning my grade."

2. "Do you want to try ordering Chinese takeout to take back to the stacks?"

3. "This final paper has me questioning if this professor just sucks or is Satan himself."

4. "Is that person over there OK? They've been sleeping for a while."

5. "Why are you online shopping?"

"I want to motivate myself to study."

"Since when do you have money to buy something anyway?"

6. "I wonder how much I could make as a stripper."

7. "There are no stress relief dogs, and I feel conned. My stress today is worse than yesterday."

8. "Rate My Professor screwed me over."

9. "I wore these clothes yesterday, and maybe even the day before, but it's fine."

10. "I wonder if I could sneak a beer in here."

11. "I just really want chocolate chip cookies."

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments