Earlier this month I was interviewed by an intern here at the office. She wanted to know where my inspiration and creativity came from. I thought it was a good question. Often times I think us creative folk like to pretend that we don’t do things to spur creative thoughts and energy. That simple question inspired me to share how I get motivated and the places I turn to for creativity:

Twitter – it has to be my favorite social media site, totally beating out Facebook, and Google +. Being able to follow anyone you want, learn from others, share with others and have at your disposal a variety of links, articles and quotes at any time is pretty awesome.  Twitter to me, is an example of technology used for the better.

Walking around the city – One my favorite quotes of all times comes from the movie, “The September Issue”, in which Grace Coddington, in a cab in Paris, says that you should always be looking out the window. I couldn’t agree more. Observing your city (or the one you happen to be in) can inspire creativity. I’ve always found this to be one of my favorite past times. I’ve discovered that when you set out to aimlessly walk around a city like NYC or Toronto, you’re bound to discover something new every time.  A new store, a new billboard, a new park, even a new corner. And don’t dismiss the people you pass. Look at them, their faces, their clothes, examine the way they walk and what they’re carrying. You never know what might spur an idea.

My friends and family – It’s amazing the things you can learn just by listening to others.  

weheartit.com – I’ve always wished I was a better photographer, so perhaps there’s where my fascination with photography sites comes from. One of my all time favorite sites has to iheartit.com. Typography, quotes, and gorgeous images are just a click away. Whatever you’re looking for, you can find it here, but with just the right twist to make it inspiring and something new. 

Comedy shows/Improv – I like to fancy myself a “pretty funny person”, but when it comes down to it, I’m nowhere near as funny as some of the recent comedians I’ve had the pleasure of seeing. Quick, witty, punchy, honest, dirty, raunchy, loud, quiet. They’ve all got their own style. Listen to comedy when you can. It will help inspire something, guaranteed. And improv can be one of the most liberating exercises. It’s amazing where two, three, four, five or ten minds can take a thought without any prompting.

Now that I’ve shared my creative outlets, dare I ask? Where do you turn for creativity? And do you turn there often? Just something to think about.