Hey All!

So, today I was thinking a lot about what inspires me. Not just in design, but in life. These past couple weeks have been so stressful and really trying and I was wondering why I am putting myself through all of this work. I started to think about my family, my friends, and my boyfriend and then it dawned on me. I don’t just do all of this for me, I do it for them too. I wanted to make something of my life so I went to college and now that I am starting to see the finish line I have realized that they have all inspired me to do everything that I have accomplished. Without their love and support and sometimes annoying perseverance, I would never be who I am today. Ok, enough mushy stuff, it was just a very nice realization to have. I know people say it all the time, but it really just hit me. So, I’m going to challenge you today readers. I want you to look around. I mean really, take a good look and figure out what inspires you. Is it you friends and family? Your partner in crime? Your dog? Or even that cute boy from Starbucks that inspires you to get up super early in the morning just so you can stand behind him in line? Haha… just saying… inspiration comes from every teeny tiny little corner in your life. With midterms in full swing and finals just around the corner, I have come up with a list of ways to get inspired!

1. Blogs. This is one of my favorites, of course. Aside from this blog, there are dozens of great blogs on design and every topic under the sun. I like to read about what works for others — it inspires me to action!

2. Quotes. I don’t know why, but great quotes help inspire me. I like to go to various quote sites to find ideas to spark my interest. Try these for a start: Writing Quotes and Quotes for Writers.

3. Overheard dialog. If I’m anywhere public, whether it’s at a park or a mall or school sometimes I’ll eavesdrop on people. Not in a gross way or anything, but I’ll just keep quiet, and listen. I love hearing other people have conversations. Sometimes it doesn’t happen on purpose — you can’t help but overhear people sometimes. If you happen to overhear a snippet of interesting dialog it can serve as a model or inspiration for later designing.

4. Nature. Stuck for ideas? Go for a walk or a jog. Get away from sidewalks and into grass, trees and hills. Appreciate the beauty around you, and let the inspiration flow through you. Sunsets and sunrises, of course, are two of my favorite uplifting scenes of nature, and anything involving water is also awesome (oceans, rivers, lakes, rain, even puddles).

5. People watching. One of my all-time favorite things to do. This is an interesting activity for anyone. Go to a busy public place and just sit and watch people. Boston Common is awesome for this. They’ll amuse you, inspire you, and fascinate you. There’s nothing more inspiring than other people.

Hope that helps!!

‘Till Next Time,

Kris =)