Don’t fear a blank page.
When I am writing a text like this, I always find myself performing the same rituals: First, I make coffee. Then I open a new document. I set the grid for the text. I look out the window (hopefully I do not get distracted by the squirrel family that is jumping through the trees). I close my eyes. Have a sip of coffee. I place my hands on the keyboard. Stare at the screen. Do not see anything. And then, I start typing. Eventually.
foto: angele kamp on unsplash
Don’t fear a blank page.
When I am writing a text like this, I always find myself performing the same rituals: First, I make coffee. Then I open a new document. I set the grid for the text. I look out the window (hopefully I do not get distracted by the squirrel family that is jumping through the trees). I close my eyes. Have a sip of coffee. I place my hands on the keyboard. Stare at the screen. Do not see anything. And then, I start typing. Eventually.
foto: angele kamp on unsplash
In search of ideas.
Like many others, the term “inspiration” comes from the Latin and means as much as “to breathe or blow into”. I think that makes a lot of sense, because it describes the strange moment of clarity, the flash of inspiration very well. The only question is: Is it possible to deliberately create this moment? I believe so. Of course, it takes some routine. Also, rituals (see above). And – for me – also a lot of great coffee. But there are other methods to prompt your creativity.
It might sound strange: Rejections can often be quite inspiring. Because the defiance they cause can have a great effect on dealing with the frustration and activate the brain. But who wants to be rejected?
That’s why we also have some positive inspos on how to get inspired:
1. Take a walk. Sounds trivial, but it is efficient. A study by the University of Stanford has shown*, that taking a walk enhances creativity. You do not need to walk the famous 10,000 steps. Even the difference between sitting and walking can have a decisive impact. The positive side effect: The steady movement relaxes us and helps us to clear our mind, lifts the spirits, and boosts our immune system. Luckily, spring is right around the corner.
2. Do gardening. That also does not sound mind blowing. But the distraction, dealing with something completely different, loosens the knot in our head, and creates room for new ideas. By the way, it is called REST – Random Episodic Silent Thinking.
3. Look for role models. Meaning: to read, watch, listen to biographies. That does not only encourage you, but it also gives you ideas on how others have solved problems before – ideas that you can adapt. Take a look at the section “People”.on our blog. Here, you find plenty of inspiring interviews with people who have achieved a lot.
4. Have bad ideas. And write them down. To clear your head. I guarantee you that it works (I am speaking from my own personal experience).
5. Brush your teeth. With the hand that you usually would not use. It simulates the brain. Usual habits put your brain in a kind of power saving mode – all kinds of unusual things, new paths, leaving your comfort zone help to boost your creativity.
6. Paint. Even if you are not talented at all – just do it. It also clears your head and creates space for new thoughts.
There is one thing I realized while writing: Perfectionism does not help. That is why I am going to leave this text alone for now. Until tomorrow. And then, I have another look. With a nice big cup of coffee in my hand. And then I will see, if it is good the way it is.
(Additional note: It is good the way it is. Except for one last question that is missing: What inspires you? Leave us a comment. We are looking forward to reading them.)
*https://news.stanford.edu/2014/04/24/walking-vs-sitting-042414/
