How to Get Inspired

During the peak of wedding season, I run the risk of getting burnt out. As any creative can attest, working with such frequency and being required to thinkcreateproduce…thinkcreateproduce can take a toll when it comes to approaching a new photo shoot/canvas/writing project/etc. So what can a creative do to feel inspired during the busiest moments?

I don't have a concrete answer, but what I can say is that I make time. I make time to think and feel and breathe. The busier you are, the more it's necessary to take a step back and recalibrate.

Last week–in between moving, shooting, writing, and creating new projects–I carved bits of time to get my head on straight. Here's a few things I did:
I arrived early to an engagement session sat alone on the beach.
I saw an independent film–Me and Earl and the Dying Girl–which made me laugh, cry, and see things in new ways. (If you have the chance, go see it…it's beautiful.)
I read at least 25 minutes every day.
I practiced yoga everyday.

If you need to take a break, be kind to yourself and do so. Here's list of things you can do to get re-inspired…
Take a walk.
Lay on your back and take 10 deep breaths with your eyes closed.
Eat a good, homemade meal with friends. (Here's a list of 10 delicious vegetarian meals under 30 minutes.)
Volunteer at a local homeless shelter. (You can find one close to you using this homeless shelter directory.)
Paint a picture of the sunset.
Walk through a museum by yourself. (You can find a local museum using this directory.)
Build a birdhouse (this one is cheap, easy, and cute!)
Call your mom. (Com'on you know she'd love it!)

Whatever you decide to do, approach self-care with grace. You deserve to relax and recharge. Not only it is great for you, your clients benefit as well!