Finding Inspiration When You’re Feeling Stuck

Have you ever had one of those weeks where your creativity feels… flat? We have too. Sometimes it creeps up unexpectedly—you’re working away, then suddenly the ideas aren’t flowing, motivation feels distant, and the reason is hard to pin down. You’re not alone in that feeling, and the good news is that inspiration can be rediscovered.

So, where do you start when you’re feeling uninspired?

Step Outside - Literally

One of the easiest (and often most overlooked) ways to reawaken your creativity is to change your surroundings. A short walk can do wonders for your perspective. Some people love the buzz of an urban landscape—watching people, noticing small details like murals, architecture, or even overheard snippets of conversation. Others prefer wide open spaces where nature takes centre stage.

Here at Botanica Ditton Park, we’re spoiled with green space that does exactly that. The front lawn is full of wildlife—you might see rabbits darting across the grass or birds sweeping through the air. Sitting here, you can’t help but feel a little more connected and, in turn, inspired. Sometimes, all it takes is pausing to notice the world carrying on around you.

Look in New Places

Of course, inspiration doesn’t always need to come from the physical world. Platforms like Pinterest and TikTok are overflowing with creative sparks. Pinterest boards can lead you down unexpected visual rabbit holes, while TikTok creators often share snippets of everyday life or clever ideas that make you see things differently. Even sites like Behance, Dribbble, or Designspiration are great for a little scroll when you need that creative nudge.

Do you already have a digital “mood board” or do you prefer the spontaneity of discovering something fresh?

Try a Different Creative Outlet

Sometimes the best way to find inspiration in one area is to step into another. If you’re a writer, try sketching. If you’re a designer, try journaling. Even cooking a new recipe can kickstart that part of your brain that’s been sitting idle. Think of it as giving your creativity permission to play without pressure.

Rest Matters Too

We also can’t ignore that a lack of inspiration is sometimes a sign of something deeper—like burnout. When your energy is running on empty, your creativity often is too. That’s why rest isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. If this is resonating with you, you might want to check out our blog post on burnout.

Practical Exercises for Inspiration

If you’re looking for quick wins, here are a few activities to try when the ideas aren’t coming:

  • Free-writing for 10 minutes—no filter, no delete button.
  • Mind-mapping ideas around a single word.
  • Changing your workspace—even moving your desk slightly can help.
  • Listening to music outside your usual taste—let unfamiliar rhythms spark new thoughts.
  • Talking it out with someone who isn’t in your industry—you’ll be surprised how much fresh perspective comes from unrelated conversations.

Inspiration isn’t something you can force, but you can create the conditions for it to find you again. Whether that’s taking a stroll across a green lawn, scrolling through a Pinterest board, or simply giving yourself permission to rest—it’s all part of the creative process.

So, what do you do when you’re feeling uninspired?