How to Find Inspiration: Simple Ways to Stay Motivated and Creative

We all know how awesome it feels to get inspired. Inspiration is the fuel that drives creativity and lights up innovation. It makes us pursue our passions and overcome challenges, filling our life with purpose. But sometimes, finding inspiration in everyday life doesn’t come easily. Even the most creative artists, engineers and scientists feel stuck and unmotivated from time to time. 

Why does it happen, and how can we find inspiration? Most people think of inspiration as an insight that comes by itself. However, finding inspiration is possible. You can develop creativity with special exercises we have to share with you today. Inspiration is all around us, it just takes the right mindset and habits to tap into it. This article explores practical ways to get inspired and stay motivated every day.

What is Inspiration and Where Does It Come From?

Understanding where inspiration originates can help cultivate it. The word ‘inspiration’ comes from the Latin ‘spiritus’, meaning ‘breath’. Indeed, inspiration is similar to breathing. Without this invisible flow life isn’t possible. All of the great discoveries in our world were made with the help of inspiration and creativity. 

Where does inspiration come from? Inspiration comes from finding something that makes you breathe in new ideas. Scientists have discovered that there are two types of triggers for inspiration: intrapsychic and environmental. Intrapsychic triggers are already in your head. For example, inspiration may come while you're sleeping or daydreaming. Environmental triggers come from the outside world. For example, when you see something beautiful, listen to music, read an interesting book, etc.

Sources of Inspiration:

• People – Influential figures, mentors, friends, lovers.
• Experiences – Traveling, picking up new hobbies, stepping out of your comfort zone.
• Books and Learning – Reading, listening to podcasts and lectures, studying new disciplines.
• Nature – Spending time outdoors, admiring nature.
• Art and Music – Visiting art galleries, museums, concerts, theatres, reading magazines, etc.
• Personal Reflection – Taking time to meditate, journal, mood-board and self-reflect.

Inspiration can be found almost everywhere. For example, Salvador Dali used to find shapes and forms in the shabby walls of his school classroom, daydreaming during the lessons. Later, he painted those forms, creating bizarre characters and places in his pictures. The artist was born in Spain and was surrounded by gorgeous scenery every day. But you may not have the ocean view from your window and still find inspiration in your daily life. Let’s explore how.

How to Find Inspiration: Practical Strategies

To find inspiration and motivation, prevent art block or burnout you can:

Engage in Creative Activities

Think about your childhood hobbies and pick one you used to be passionate about. Painting, crafting, writing, playing a musical instrument and other creative activities can stimulate inspiration. Art is like a reset for your mind, it allows you to let go of stress and focus. Don’t try to be perfect. There is no bad art, especially, if you don’t put commercial interest into it.

Surround Yourself with Inspiring People

You can find inspiration in your loved ones, as they make you feel a variety of emotions. But also, you can find inspiration in strangers, for example, if you follow influencers or artists on social media. Mentors and life coaches also can help you find inspiration and maintain motivation. Consider working with a life and well-being coach, such as those at Miranna.

Explore Nature and Change Your Environment

This is especially relevant given how much time we’ve been spending at home lately. Changing up the environment can help you feel inspired again. The scenery can do wonders for your inspiration levels. Even a simple rearrangement of your workspace, working in a different location or simply taking a walk can bring more spaciousness into your daily life.

Read and Learn Something New

The Internet provides numerous opportunities for learning. Not only books but also blogs, magazines, online courses and podcasts can be a valid source of information. For example, you can watch TED Talks on YouTube or subscribe to Miranna’s newsletter. Continuous learning keeps your mind fresh and makes you feel inspired more often. You can also join a network group to share ideas and make new social connections.

Practice Mindfulness and Reflection

You encounter thousands of events, decisions, and objects in everyday life, but if you don’t notice them, they can’t trigger inspiration. Mindfulness practices can quiet distractions and improve focus. Take time to be present and find inspiration in everyday life. Reflect on your decisions and practice gratitude before sleep to shift focus toward positivity and get inspiring dreams.

How to Maintain Inspiration Over Time

How to find and maintain inspiration in everyday life when you have tons of deadlines and no time for creativity? Here are some habits to keep your inspiration and motivation alive:

• Journaling – Get a notebook or use your phone to write down ideas as they come to you. If you’re a more visual person, take images, quotes, and objects that inspire you and turn them into a vision board. You can also use Pinterest—an app that allows you to create vision boards and post your own pictures for others to get inspired.

• Setting Goals – Clear and achievable goals make you feel inspired and motivated to overcome challenges. Take your time to brainstorm and find solutions to your current problems. You can also visualize them on a board and print it out to have motivation by the hand.
• Time management – Planning your schedule can be a game-changer for productivity. Use web-planners such as Google Calendar, Asana, etc, or write down your schedule in your notebook. Make sure to leave blank spaces for hobbies, socialization and rest. 
• Avoiding Burnout – Burnout is the opposite of inspiration. Even if you feel inspired at the moment, don’t overwork yourself. Hyperfixation can lead to a burnout very quickly. Try maintaining work-life balance by prioritizing self-care practices, going to sleep on time and getting enough rest.
• Staying Open-Minded – Keep exploring new ideas and perspectives. Open-minded people always seek new opportunities for personal and professional growth. Don’t act like a-know-it-all when you argue with someone; instead, be open to different perspectives. 

Coaching Stimulates Your Inspiration

Coaching can help you find out what inspires you.There is no need to work with just one coach long-term. You can take a few sessions with different coaches to see your life from different perspectives. They will provide you with ideas and insights upon such aspects of your life, as relationships and parenting, well-being and mental health, career and stress management, or intimacy and sex. Download the Miranna app today to connect with coaches and find inspiration for a more fulfilling lifestyle.

Final Thoughts: Inspiration is Everywhere

Everyone can cultivate inspiration with the right habits and mindset. By engaging in creative activities, surrounding yourself with inspiring people, changing your environment, and practicing mindfulness, you can unlock endless sources of inspiration in your everyday life. Discover the power of inspiration within and around you.

FAQ

How do I find out what inspires me?

Try different activities like journaling, traveling, or working with a coach. Reflect on what makes you feel energized and curious — these are your personal sources of inspiration.

How to figure out inspiration?

Start by noticing when and where you feel most creative or excited. Keep track of moments when ideas come easily — this helps you recognize your inspiration patterns.

Why do I have no inspiration?

Lack of inspiration often comes from burnout, stress, or routine. Changing your environment, taking breaks, and exploring new hobbies can help bring it back.

How can I get more inspiration?

Engage in creative activities, read or learn something new, and spend time in nature. Coaching and mindfulness practices can also boost your motivation and help you stay inspired over time.