Inspiration from Unexpected Places

Sometimes inspiration is hard to find. I especially struggle with it when I’m tired and worn out. But when I look for it, I can usually find some—sometimes in the most unexpected places … 

A few days ago, I returned from a week of traveling to conferences and job-related events. My emotional (and creative) tank was low—even hitting empty—after endless hours of socializing and networking. Even though I enjoyed it, as an introvert I can only take so much before I completely crash. And I did! 

As creatives, we’re reminded not to wait for inspiration. If we’re to be truly productive, we must write (or paint or create music) even during those times when inspiration seems far away. And while I agree with that, sometimes we simply need to take a break. But I also love those moments when encouragement and inspiration comes when (and even where) I least expect them. 

If we’re to be truly productive, we must write (or paint or create music) even during those times when inspiration seems far away.

Lately, those moments have occurred on one of the the most time-sucking places for creatives: the internet. Maybe they are gentle reminders, redirecting me to get back to doing what I love to do—creating. Or maybe, they are simply small emotional (and creative) hugs to encourage me on this journey in the midst of the struggle—a sign that I am seen. 

I find these memes from time to time. They remind me that I am not alone—that others face the same struggles and problems that I do, yet they continue to put one foot in front of the other each day and somehow—in some way—we will all manage to get through the day. 

Others simple encourage me that there is purpose in the pain. Recently, I started a file on my computer collecting these, because (let’s face it) there will be days when we need more encouragement than others. On those days, I go to that file and read through these little pieces of inspiration. It might not change what I am going through on that particular day, but it gives me hope that something will come out of it some day. 

And others remind me that, just like art, life is a process. It is constantly moving through various stages. Whatever I struggle with today will give me the tools, the empathy, or the inspiration to write about it tomorrow. I just have to endure it and do what my body needs me to do today. 

The creativity will come. We just have to be a little patient with ourselves. 

Whatever I struggle with today will give me the tools, the empathy, or the inspiration to write about it tomorrow. 

I can’t take credit for any of these artistic slices of life. But now that I am looking for them, I see them everywhere. When I see them, it’s like finding a nugget of gold that I will treasure for hard days ahead, when they come. 

I wish I could thank each person who created these. They have brought a smile to my face and inspiration for my journey. I hope they will do the same for you today, wherever you are on yours. 

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