10 Easy Ways to Get Inspired

Everyone needs to be inspired from time to time. That is why I have listed below 10 ways to get a fresh idea and take on a new perspective. Though this is intended for writers, it can certainly apply to anyone in need of inspiration.

1. 

   Image by a_real_horrorshow_devotchka via Flickr

   Smell the flowers. I mean to take this literally as well as figuratively. For me this phrase is the epitome of being an “in-the-moment” kind of person. If you make an effort to enjoy small pleasures the moment they strike you, then you will live a life full of inspiration. Guaranteed.

2. 

   Image by Pensiero via Flickr

   Take a walk. I live in the mountains now, but when I lived in the city I walked everywhere. Though I do not walk as much, I still enjoy my walks when I can take them. Experiencing a place by foot is the best way to do it. You will see, smell, hear, feel, and sometimes even taste things that you would otherwise never encounter. It is a great way to get your senses active.

3. 

   Image by derpunk via Flickr

   Take some photographs.
   Taking photographs gives you a different perspective. You have to capture the perfect angle in the perfect light. Taking photographs also gives you a tone that is particular to the experience. If you are photographing a parade, then you will most likely take on a fun, quirky tone. If you photograph a willow tree, then perhaps a somber mood will saturate you.

4. 

   Image by tyfn via Flickr

   Drink Earl Grey tea. The bergamot will be uplifting to your spirits and the caffeine will give you an energy boost. I recommend sipping slowly and letting your thoughts rise to the surface as you enjoy a piping hot cup of tea.

5. 

   Image via Wikipedia

   Mind map. This is one of the easiest way to get inspired. By picking any topic and then branching off into other related areas, you can generate more ideas in 15 minutes than you ever thought possible. Do this as often as you need to. It is one of the best ways to organize thoughts and find new connections. After all, finding new connections is most of what creativity is.

6. 

   Image via Wikipedia

   Try a new medium. Are you used to writing on a computer? Then try writing longhand. If you are downright adventurous then you might even try writing with a fountain or a quill pen. Experiment with color, too. A new color may trigger a new train of thought.

7. 

   Image by Ben Dodson via Flickr

   Read a Great Book. There is a reason why some books are considered great. There are even college programs that use the great books as their teachers (I attended one). The great books force you to wrestle with ideas and can certainly challenge the way you think about things. If you are new to the concept, then I recommend starting with Plato, the gadfly himself.

8. 

   Image by Tom Purves via Flickr

   Partake in an engaging conversation. This one is easier said than done. Most conversations are superficial or informative, not engaging or soul-wrenching. How does one remedy this? By engaging in conversations here at Writers Community for one. Comment, ask questions, toss around some ideas, write a post, etc. There are numerous ways to engage in meaningful conversation here.

9. 

   Image by PhotoDu.de via Flickr

   Drive. I have written quite a few poems while driving. It helps to have a voice recorder handy, or a pad of paper to quickly jot down an idea. Caution: If you are behind the wheel, it is best to focus on the road, of course. Aside from that the drive can be very inspiring. Driving gives you the constant sense of movement and time passing. Putting pen to paper with the sole intention of movement and passing time can be an exhilarating exercise.

10. 

    Image by sameold2008 via Flickr

    Sit on a park bench. This can be any bench, really. People watching is a great sport. You can write lives for people on the spot. It is usually a life far different from the one the person is living, but that is part of the fun. Unlike most people, I love to go shopping during the busiest holiday seasons. I do not love the shopping itself, I love watching the other people shopping. I always walk away with great character sketches and insight into the nature of relationships and interaction. People reveal a lot about themselves when under pressure. As a writer, it can be a great time to watch them.