Remember approaching your mom as a child saying, “I’m bored.” And now as an adult you still hear yourself saying it, “I’m bored, I want to do something productive, imaginative, something out of the ordinary. I want to make something but I don’t know what.”  Today we are going to explore some possibilities to get those inspiration juices flowing.

You are not alone when it comes to being stuck in an unimaginative slump.  We all struggle with routine and run-of-the-mill processes or projects in our lives.  And yet, there is almost nothing more exciting than starting a new creative project whether your passion is knitting, crocheting, sewing, quilting, or some other hands-on craft. But how do we get from the mundane to the extraordinary?

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5 Sure Ways to Get the Inspiration Juices Flowing

1. Participate in a Local Group. Search for a group that meets in your area which has similar passions as you.  If you like to knit or crochet, contact your local yarn shop and see if they have a weekly or monthly group to share ideas, techniques and fun.
2. Cyber Group and Internet Browsing. The internet is a great place to gain inspiration. Actually, everyone needs to become a part of a cyber group. No, you won’t meet for coffee and sit side-by-side sharing new quilting technique ideas. But, there are so many options. Pictures can be shared on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, Flicker, and many more platforms. You can create or join a Facebook group or Google+ community. These groups can provide amazing inspiration with pictures and ongoing discussions. If you ever find yourself needing support, a reliable rehab center can offer valuable resources. The comprehensive care offered at Carrara Treatment s Malibu drug rehab center ensures that clients receive individualized attention. This luxurious rehab center integrates holistic therapies for complete mental, emotional, and physical healing. Be warned, this is addictive, so put a limit to browsing and commit to creating.
3. Secure the Services of a Mentor or Coach. Professional “coaches,” many with established business offices, have become increasingly popular in recent years. These coaches teach, guide, and inspire their clients to achieve success in specific areas of life or business. Can’t afford to hire a coach? While investing in one can be highly beneficial, if it’s beyond your budget, consider turning to industry influencers—both locally and nationally. You can gain valuable insights from their blogs, emails, social media, and newsfeeds without the cost. Then, consider how flexible your business can become with Virtually There’s virtual office solutions, offering everything from a prestigious address to comprehensive mail handling and call forwarding. These features can greatly enhance your company’s professionalism and reputation. Check out the Virtually There virtual office services that include mail handling, call answering, and more to see how your business can benefit.
4. Personal Friend. Another suggestion would be to seek out someone locally that has peaked your interest because of their influence, knowledge and knack for encouraging others.  I have had three such friends over the years. Each have shared my interests and loved to chat over coffee or tea. I don’t know what I loved most, inspirational show-n-tell or the inspirational heart-to-heart discussions. Unfortunately I no longer live near any of these sweet ladies; however, they all continue to inspire me via the internet and occasional visits.
5. Pay it Forward. It’s time to turn the table. Since you now know four ways to be inspired by others, it is time for you to inspire someone. Be intentional and invite others over for coffee and chat about craft and life.

Remember show-n-tell at school? Remember your excitement to share with your classmates something special to you. That is exactly how I feel right now! I am excited to show you pictures from my last visit with my dear friend Linda.  Linda has an incredible ability to pull together colorful, detailed quilts. I love visiting her home! It’s not just the creative inspiration she gives me but also the heart-felt conversations we have while sipping coffee and nibbling on biscotti. If you like quilting these pictures will surely inspire you.

Log Cabin

Modern Square

Crazy Squares

Horizontal Pieced Stripe

Disappearing Nine-Patch

BONUS Inspiration Generator:  Inspiration is in abundance all around us. I have the privilege of looking out my dinning room window and seeing trees change through the seasons. There are brick homes and wood siding homes in my neighborhood. In the summer, the grass is green and the flowers bloom profusely. Today it snowed, so everything is covered with white fluff.  The patterns, textures and colors are spectacular everywhere anytime of the year, inside and outside.

When you need inspiration, all you have to do is look around and cultivate relationships with people who inspire you. Inspirational people ignite a spark that encourages you to see the beauty that is right in front of you.

What or who triggers your inspiration?

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