“Writers write because they have something to say; readers read because they have something to learn.”-Ashley Abramson

Life has felt a little bland as of late. Somehow the hearty winter oats with their comfort and warmth have turned beige and starchy mid-bite.

I’m tired of the brown. I’m tired of the crunchy-dead grass underfoot, and I long for longer summers days when leaves tickle the sidewalk with light.

My insides are beginning to feel like my outsides, monochromatic and muddled. I’m longing for something new, something fresh with a lightness in spirit.

I’ve always wanted this blog to be a source of inspiration. Not just for me but for those around me. Something bright and colorful with soul and a little grit to delight in daily life instead of wallow in the bland oatmeal of routine.

But I’ve forgotten. I’ve been so engaged in consuming to be inspired, I forgotten that a vital part of my energy is being able to create.

 

I was reading an article from The Minimalists where they explain “Every human has the innate desire to create: we all want to add value to the world. Hence, we are all creators of some sort: Some of us are writers, painters, musicians. Some people scrapbook, take photos, make cool things with their hands.”

So it’s not just me. We all have an inherent desire to leave a little piece of ourselves in the world, in whatever ways we can. But sometimes we become blocked. We lose sight of what sets our soul on fire and things that add value to our otherwise bland days.

“We must cultivate our purpose. Set aside time to do more of what you love. You will begin to find joy again when you intentionally engage in your interests.”-Darling Magazine

So as we move from a season of muted colors and heavy layers, to one of new energy and life, here are four things to do when you’re feeling uninspired:

1. Listen to a pod-cast

There are so many brilliant people in the world full of advice, stories and inspiration. Sometimes you need to hear new ideas from a complete stranger to jump-start or renew one of your passions. Below are a list of my fav Ted Talks.

Your Elusive Creative Genius- Elizabeth Gilbert

Your Body Language Shapes who you are- Amy Cuddy

Do Schools Kill Creativity- Ken Robinson

2. Make yourself uncomfortable

If you’re doing the same thing day in and day out, how do you expect that anything new is going to spark something inside of you? Go to a museum, visit a show that you’d normally not attend. Hell, sign up for Bumblee BFF and get coffee with a stranger. Make the mental choice to put yourself out of your comfort zone and allow yourself to grow in new ways with limited expectations.

3. Get outside in nature

At least for me, nothing is more inspiring than places that are untouched. It’s rejuvenating and reconnecting to be in a place that fells raw, natural and left in it’s original existence. Take a hike, find a remote beach. Do something that feels secluded and special. Something that reconnects you to your roots.

4. Make something with your hands

I love to paint. If someone asked me what hobbies I have I’d probably say something about painting, but rarely do I actually paint. Instead, I come home at the end of a long day, make some dinner and launch myself into an hour or two of Netflix. Instead of mindlessly consuming, get your hands dirty. Re-connect your hands and your head. Draw something, write something, build something. Anything. It doesn’t have to be good. You don’t have to show it to anyone. But at least you’ll know you did it.

“My creativity heals me. My creativity teaches me about the transformative process of creation. My creativity teaches me that each and every pain has a purpose in my development. As long as I can keep allowing this creative energy to move through me, it will show me how to make a success out of what has felt like a failure. It will help me tap into and align myself with the regenerative power of nature. It will always bring me back to my natural alignment with the rebirth of the earth.” –Chani Nicholas

 

Sweater: Clad and Cloth

Jeans: Just Black Denim (similar here and here)

Booties: Free People

Jewelry: Walters and Hogsett

Hat: TJ Maxx (similar here and here)

|Photos|