As a graphic designer and social media manager, I’m constantly searching for creative inspiration. It's funny how inspiration can strike when you least expect it, whether it's during a quiet morning walk, scrolling through Instagram, or while reading a book that has nothing to do with design at all. Over time, I've discovered a few key sources that fuel my creativity and keep me motivated, and I thought I’d share some of those with you.
Inspiration from People on Instagram
One of the most surprising but impactful sources of inspiration for me comes from other creatives and influencers I follow on Instagram. There’s something about seeing what others are doing in real-time that sparks new ideas for both my design work and my social media strategies. I want to give a shout-out to a few women in particular who consistently inspire me:
- @ninabomanco: Nina's feed is a perfect blend of elegance and boldness. Her use of color and minimalist design sensibilities have influenced many of my branding projects. I love how she manages to make even the simplest things look striking, reminding me that less is often more when it comes to design.
- @itssavannahjordan: Savannah’s energy and authenticity are contagious. Her vibrant, unapologetic content inspires me to be more daring in my own work. Watching how she engages with her audience has helped me craft more engaging and authentic content for my social media clients. Plus, her sense of style often gives me ideas for color palettes and visual aesthetics.
- @shelby.sapp: Shelby’s approach to storytelling through her content is incredibly inspiring. Her posts are not only visually appealing but also deeply personal. She reminds me that good design and social media aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re about connecting with people on a deeper level. This perspective has shifted how I approach creating content for my clients, encouraging me to focus on the narrative behind the visuals. These accounts serve as a constant reminder that creativity is everywhere, and it’s often the personal touches—the unique style, voice, or perspective—that make content stand out.
Inspiration from Books
I also find a lot of creative fuel in books, even ones that don’t seem directly related to design or social media. Sometimes, the best ideas come from unexpected places. Here are a few books that have had a huge impact on how I approach both my work and life:
- "Atomic Habits" by James Clear: This book has been a game-changer for me in terms of building sustainable creative habits. One of the biggest takeaways was the idea that small, incremental changes can lead to massive transformations over time. As a creative professional, I used to struggle with productivity, but after reading "Atomic Habits," I’ve learned how to set up routines that make creativity a daily practice, rather than something that strikes only when inspiration hits.
- "The Diary of a CEO" by Steven Bartlett: This book was an eye-opener, not just in terms of business but also how I approach my personal brand as a designer and social media manager. Steven Bartlett’s journey has taught me the importance of vulnerability, authenticity, and taking risks. It also reinforced the idea that creativity isn't limited to design—it’s about problem-solving, adaptability, and growth, both personally and professionally.
- "The 4-Hour Workweek" by Tim Ferriss: This one really shifted my mindset on how I work. As a freelancer juggling multiple projects, it’s easy to fall into the trap of working long hours and burning out. Ferriss’s book taught me how to streamline my workflow, automate tasks, and focus on what truly matters. This approach has not only boosted my productivity but has also given me more time to focus on the creative work that I love, instead of getting bogged down by administrative tasks.
Other Sources of Inspiration
Beyond Instagram and books, I find creative inspiration in a few other places that have become integral to my process:
- Nature: When I’m feeling creatively stuck, getting outside is my go-to reset button. There’s something about the colors, textures, and calmness of nature that helps me clear my mind and get back into a creative flow. Whether it’s a walk in the park or just sitting outside with a cup of coffee, being in nature always leaves me feeling more inspired.
- Music: I’m someone who works best with music in the background. Depending on the project, my playlist can range from soothing instrumental tracks to upbeat, energizing music. There’s something about matching the vibe of a song to the work I’m doing that helps ideas flow more freely. Sometimes, a lyric or melody will even spark an idea for a project.
- Travel: Whenever I have the chance, I love traveling, even if it’s just to a nearby city or town. New environments, cultures, and experiences always spark something in me. From the architecture to street art, I’m always taking mental notes on color schemes, typography, and how different cultures approach design. Traveling helps me step outside my creative bubble and gain fresh perspectives. -
How I Use This Inspiration in My Work
All these sources of inspiration—whether it's scrolling through @ninabomanco’s stunning feed, reading "Atomic Habits" or simply getting lost in a new playlist—eventually find their way into my work.
I’ve learned that inspiration doesn’t always come from staring at a blank screen or brainstorming in isolation. Sometimes, it comes from baking cookies, reading an insightful book, or finding beauty in the everyday moments. And for me, that’s where the magic happens.
I hope this gives you some insight into where I find inspiration and how I weave it into my creative work! Feel free to explore your own sources of inspiration, whether they come from Instagram, books, or simply stepping outside.