Archives for February 2010

I managed to get to bed early last night, but I didn’t fall asleep right away. Tucked under the covers, I let my mind wander (and wander and wander) for more than an hour, and it was actually kinda nice. 🙂

Does this happen to you? — Do you get the feeling there just isn’t enough time at the end of most days to decompress (when did our to-do lists get so long?!?)? I think it might be why I feel stuck in a creative rut.

This “stuck-ness” happens to me every once in a while, and it isn’t limited to creativity. Have you ever gone through a time in which you felt like a hamster on a wheel, like you were repeating the same tasks, mistakes or bad habits over and over again? I have, more than once.

Last night, as I lay in bed, I tried to think of ways out of my rut and remembered something that’s worked for me before: writing an inspiring list.

This morning I asked friends on Twitter to share some of their inspirations…

By using a list of things (quotes, songs, people, pets, paintings, poems, books, precious memories, flowers, collectible coins — whatever they are) that move me as jumping off points for even MORE ideas, maybe, just maybe, I’ll find a way out of my rut.

It’s free and easy if you’d like to try it with me. 🙂 All we need is something to write with and a seat someplace quiet for a few minutes.

Step One (there’s really only one step): Write a list of things that inspire you.

Sometimes I find it easier to start with my eyes closed, and I don’t think you have to put a lot of deep thought into it, either. If something moves you in any way, add it to your list.

Here are some of the things on mine…
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