So, you need inspiration to get your pen on the paper.
Whether you just want to draw or have a project to complete, getting started is the most important thing you can do.
When starting a project, Getting up immediately from bed and going straight to the drawing board is the most effective time for me. This way nothing else in the day will take up too much time or energy before some progress is made. Once a project is started it taunts me to be finished.
When are you most motivated?
Scheduling a time to work on a project helps immensely! It’s like going to a job. You know? You may not want to be there at first, but you get into a routine. This is how most of my projects actually get done, scheduling time off from other projects, taking time off from another job, setting it as a priority when I wake up at a certain time.
I’m also easily distracted. Returning to work after a distraction takes a bit of discipline. One distraction often leads to another. Getting a snack and notice the cat. Then play with the cat and forget about eating a snack until the cat runs away.
What are some of your daily distractions?
So, inspiration!? For me being active is inspirational! When I’m being productive I’m inspired. Then when some progress is made it gives me something to motivate me tomorrow or later today.
Situations throughout the day spark little ideas. Ideas lead to curiosity & excitement. At any moment if I’m able to sketch, write down, or voice/video record an idea it becomes packaged inspiration. When I get stagnant, I have ideas available to spark inspiration.
Memories are great for inspiration. When you have a strong emotion it often creates a more vivid memory. Think of a time that brought laughter. Think of a pain that brought tears. Use these emotions to feel your way through a bit of illustration. This is especially helpful when you can pair an emotion from personal experience with a piece of art, when you’re trying to tell a story.
I’ll actually get more instructional videos up in future posts.
What time of day are you most productive?