Get Creative: 6 Ways to Find Ideas for Your New Design
It’s happened to the best of us—out of nowhere, our well of creative ideas dried up. Gone is the inspiration that’s driven you through countless projects. You can’t come up with a new idea for the life of you. The next time you crash into this “writer’s block”—no matter what kind of artist you are—you can utilize these tips to get your creative juices flowing again.
Let the Past Inspire You
Whether it’s your own past work, or the works of others, looking at past works of art can fire up an idea of your own very quickly. Even looking at regular, everyday items from your past in a new light can help. Tapping into some of your memories, both good and bad, can also provide enlightenment for new ideas. Look at old photo albums or even read some of your favourite childhood books to gain new insight and inspiration.
Just Start Writing/Drawing/Photographing
You don’t have to have a clear idea of where your project will end before you get started. Sometimes the best cure to a lack of new ideas is to pick up your pen/camera/clay/other art tool and just start doing. Think of it as a way to “purge” the bad or lack of ideas from your system.
Try Something New
Whether it’s a new art form or going backpacking, experiencing something new can really get your imagination working. Try a new workout, read a different genre of book, try a new type of cuisine, check out a different breakfast spot—anything to push yourself out of your comfort zone just a little bit. New experiences will make you more aware of the sights, sounds, and smells around you, which will all increase your creative mojo.
Keep an Idea Journal
Tracking any and all of your ideas will give you some backups to dive into when the creative juices just aren’t flowing. It’s also a good place to take note of other pieces of art or artists that made you feel a certain way and why.
Take a Timeout
Grant yourself some “me” time to just sit back and enjoy the world around you. Put the phone away, keep the television off, and enjoy some fresh air. Take in all of the details and make note of your feelings, either mentally or on paper. Another way to give yourself a mental timeout is to color or doodle. Science has shown that this can help relax the mind and allow for more creative thinking.
Meet New People
Nothing will get your brain working like meeting a new person. Whether you sign up for a sports league or network through work, meeting and interacting with new people will help you see the world through different eyes, which might be just the ticket to a tidal wave of creative inspiration.
