“The world always seems brighter when you’ve just made something that wasn’t there before.” Neil Gaiman
Even under the best of circumstances, finding that spark for creative work can be a daunting task. For many of us, the “gut it out” mentality can take hold, and that only by hours spent at our desks will the job get done. Especially now, it’s important to have go-to wells of inspiration for when our creativity is running on empty. Here are some ideas for filling your own tank:
Step Away From the Desk
Stepping away from the desk can often be the most beneficial way to get the work done. Far from counterintuitive, that spark of creativity can often be found beyond your computer screen. Our Art Director Jennifer Teseiro believes that “getting out of your usual surroundings and being in a different place” is crucial to getting out of your head and into a different mindset. Sometimes Paperkite CEO Susan Green is a firm believer, as well, noting “going for a walk, getting outside always refreshes me and makes me look at a project in a new way.”
Talk it Out
Once upon a time, you could find inspiration by rolling your desk chair over to a neighbor’s desk for some creative conversation. While there’s now the extra step of setting up a virtual meeting, there’s still value in talking out the challenges of a project with fellow team members. Susan believes that “something about exchanging ideas in a fun back and forth always sparks something in me.” A fresh set of eyes can help get you past your stumbling block to a finished product.
When All Else Fails…
…there’s the internet! Yes, internet searches can take you down rabbit holes better left unseen, but there’s also plenty of inspiring content out there, too. Whether your platform of choice is Google, Instagram, or Pinterest seeing what others have created can help pull your own creativity out of neutral. As Susan notes, when she sees “a brilliant execution or idea, it always gives me a lift.” Maybe you just need the encouragement that you’re heading down the right path with a project, or maybe you’ll realize you need to start from square one. Either way, creativity doesn’t exist in a vacuum, and keeping current on the work of others in the industry can help fortify your own instincts.
The writer Dorothy Parker once said, “Creativity is a wild mind and a disciplined eye.” Wherever you go in search of inspiration, trust your own training and experience, as well. While outside sources can flip the switch for that light bulb moment, the connection can only be made with the unique skills that you bring to the table.
