Music often tells stories that can be inspiring to some people. There are many aspects of music that can spark creativity. For example, you might draw inspiration from the lyrics, the tone of the song or piece, or just the feelings that the music evokes in you.
Try free writing or journaling for 15 minutes every day. It is best if you do this type of writing by hand, because it will connect you more fully to the writing process.
Try re-reading a favorite story or a new book that you may enjoy. Reading the work of other writers can help you find and refine your own creative voice. Read as much and as often as possible.
If you are not comfortable drawing but still want to express your creativity, you could try coloring. People find inspiration in all sorts of creative activities. Have fun and get in touch with your artistic side without worrying about producing something perfect.
Walk around your house and try to find 5 to 10 items that you forgot about. Re-engage with them and remember the story of how they came to be in your possession. Take a new route to work. If you normally drive or take public transit, try riding a bike or walking. While on public transit, don’t spend the entire time listening to music or reading the paper. Instead, try listening to the conversations of the people around you. These stories may help to promote new and creative thoughts.
For example, instead of writing at home, work in a coffee shop or library to mix up the scenery. Alternatively, if you typically work inside, try relocating to an outdoor environment, like a park or garden.
If you are an artist, bring your supplies with you out into nature and try and capture the landscape. Similarly, if you are a writer, bring a notebook and write down some of the feelings and words that come to mind while you are consumed by the natural world. You can also take photographs of images that you find interesting or inspiring, like a huge old tree or a dew-covered spiderweb. That way, you can return to the image later, when you are ready to do some creative work and need some ideas.
Studies show that the act of walking can improve your creative thinking process, and that those creativity boosting benefits last even for a short while after you sit back down. When it comes to stirring the creative juices, the act of walking matters more than the environment itself. Even walking on a treadmill while facing a blank wall can help jumpstart your creativity!
For example, think of a time when your friend did something that was hilarious or interesting. Can you find inspiration in these stories? You may find inspiration in stories about people overcoming adversity. You could also find inspiration in stories of hardship and loss.
Collaborating with other artists, writers, or musicians can also help to inspire you. Sometimes your muse is a person with similar interests to yourself. Family and friends can also provide you with inspiration when they achieve success.
Sit on a park bench and watch people interact. Go to an airport or subway station and watch people as they come and go.
For example, you might ask your grandmother to tell a story about something significant that happened in her life before you were born. You may also find it helpful to talk to people who have different social and cultural backgrounds from your own.
