Inspiration Is a Necessity...But Finding It Isn't Always Easy

As a designer, I am constantly looking for inspiration in the things around me. My dogs, the bumper sticker on the car in front of me, the colors in the sky during sunset, the conversation between the two loud people waiting at the cross walk next to me...anything and everything.

But sometimes, it is ridiculously hard to see things that might inspire us through the constant bombardment of images and information we are accosted by on a daily basis. In the interest of trying to find those things that move us, here are some things you can do to increase the inspiration factor in your life.

1. Disconnect. Yes, put away the computer, the cell phone, and all those things that distract you from really being aware of your surroundings. We're constantly plugged in and this not only distracts us, but it dulls our senses. Now that's not to say that these things aren't wonderful tools because they are...but just try to take some time away from them for a while. It'll help you see things in a different light.

2. Get Out. Leave your house, your office, or wherever it is you usually do your work. Go to a coffee shop. Go into the city. Head to the beach. People watch. Blast your music while you're driving down the highway. Just get out, go somewhere different, and have a good time.

3. Bust out your camera and photograph everything. It's truly amazing how different things look when seeing them through a viewfinder...

4. Find a quiet spot. Everything is so loud all the time! Find somewhere you can relax and enjoy the quiet. It will allow you to clear and open up your mind.

5. Read. Books, magazines, billboards, and all other readable materials are excellent sources of inspiration.

6. Write. Put your thoughts, feelings, ideas, dreams, etc. on paper. Writing is a great way to get your creativity flowing. Don't think about what you're writing, don't edit, just let it come out of you and onto the paper. You'd be amazed at what lies beneath the surface...very inspiring.

7. Stop, Look, and Listen. No I'm not talking about crossing the street. Watch things, listen to sounds, take a minute to take it all in. We're so closed off or in our own little worlds most of the time that we miss what's right in front of us.

These are just some of things that help me when I'm in need of inspiration. What do you do?