& how to implement this in everyday life
Inspiration comes from many things. For me, I feel most inspired after spending time outdoors surrounded by nature.
Often times, inspiration hits me randomly. Some new idea will cross my mind, and I will feel as if I have to drop everything I am doing and start exploring this new concept. I'm sure many you of you are familiar with this feeling. The "Aha!" moment. These are what truly motivate me to create-- which can be a good thing and a bad thing, depending on what I am doing in the moment (not ideal when I am trying to work).
Okay so let's break this down.
Art: Painting & Drawing
This is where I really get inspired by nature. I observe the trees swaying in the wind, the birds gathering materials to build a nest, and the toad hopping along the grass. I like to capture these moments with photos, video, and of course, sketches and paintings. Drawing flora and fauna is what I enjoy most. Capturing the tiniest of details to make realistic images that tell a story. If I am able to help viewers learn something new, whether it's a new appreciation for a certain species, or a better understanding of a scientific process, then I know I am making a difference in what I do, and that encourages me to keep putting myself and my work out there.
Piano: Composing Music
Playing piano has always been a great outlet for me when I am feeling particularly stressed or anxious about something. It's a way to express myself when I don't necessarily feel up for conversation or writing down my thoughts. Most times, I just sit, hit record, and I start playing. I play whatever I am feeling in the moment. Over the years, I've learned to not put so much pressure on myself. It doesn't do you any good to wonder if something sounds good enough, it just makes the whole experience less enjoyable for you. After all, I am creating for me, and if I just so happen to think others may enjoy this as well, then I may share it.
Sharing something you've created with others is a very daunting thing to do sometimes. It's being vulnerable. It's sharing something that came from your own mind, and showing it to others, hoping they feel something from it too. There's always the doubt in the back of your mind, "what if they don't' like it?" Well, here's the thing. There will always be someone who doesn't like it, but there will always be someone who does appreciate what you've created, and that makes it worth it for me.
Big Ideas
A lot of times, my big "Aha!" moments result in more big ideas rather than a subject to draw or some melody to add to a song. I'm talking about the things like starting this blog. Creating my own website and shop. A big new project. These are more long term plans that require brainstorming, planning, and a lot of experimenting. And these are the things that I become really passionate about. It's moments like these where time moves so fast while creating something, and the end product is something to feel truly proud of. You get in the zone. Productivity is high. Little things don't distract you anymore. You're focused.
Personally, I would love to try and take this motivation and be able to use it more in my everyday life. I am going to try to work on actively practicing this more in my work and healthy lifestyle habits. I think a big step in this would be to turn off my phone to limit any distractions. The goal is to not need my "Aha" moment to get myself in the creative working zone.
Some Final Thoughts
If you find yourself struggling to find inspiration and motivation, remind yourself to look at the bigger picture. What is your end goal? How can you work efficiently to get there without burning yourself out? Are you making healthy life choices? Are you surrounded by others who are determined and hard working? Are you finding ways to express your emotions?
Take care & happy creating,
Lauren
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