I’ve read a few books, articles and blog posts about ‘inspiration’ – that is, the type of inspiration that comes when you’re sitting in front of a computer waiting for the words to come out (or, if you’re like my co-partner, in front of a blank pad).
I don’t know about other writers, but I find I can’t force inspiration. It’s there, or it isn’t. It always turns up eventually – to date, at least.
I’ll start by telling you where I don’t get inspired to write – I wish these worked, but they don’t for me (it doesn’t meant they won’t for you).
- In the shower (as much as I wish I could say it does)
- From above (divine inspiration – it would be so easy, wouldn’t it?)
- Browsing stock photography sites
- Looking through award winning ads (I do enjoy going through annuals, but it’s really procrastination)
- Stressful situations
- 3 in the morning (although my husband does)
- Unreasonable client demands
- Staring at my computer waiting for the words to come out
Here are a places I do find inspiration:
- Walking away from my computer when the words don’t come out (see above)
- At work (surprise – still the best place!)
- Walking the dog in the park
- Laying my head down on the couch at work (some of my best ideas have come this way and I have no idea why)
- Cooking
- Out of the blue
The truth is, the last point is probably where inspiration always comes from. I have absolutely no clue where ideas come from. I’ve been in this business long enough to stop questioning it. As long as it comes, I’m happy (and so are our clients).
Posted by Dana Minter
You’d think that leaving this mortal coil would, at the very least, allow you to escape some of more tedious requirements of everyday life, like paying bills.
I’v been unfriended on Facebook. I’ve not unfriended anybody (even though I’ve wanted to – I’m too polite.)
Arguably, a professional writer should already know how to use words that are ‘difficult’. In reality, it’s not unusual to be in the flow of writing and stop dead. 
