Design is all about finding inspiration in the world around us, right? For me, there are three things that really get my creative juices flowing: coffee, travel, and relationships.
Let's start with coffee. I mean, who doesn't love a good cup of joe? As a designer, I spend a lot of time sitting at my desk, staring at a computer screen. But a good cup of coffee can help me focus and get in the zone. And it's not just the caffeine that does it – there's something about the ritual of brewing a cup of coffee that I find calming and inspiring. The sound of the water boiling, the aroma of the beans, the way the steam rises from the cup – all of it helps me center myself and get ready to work.
Travel is another big source of inspiration for me. There's nothing like getting out of your comfort zone and exploring new places, trying new foods, and experiencing new cultures to spark your creativity. I love the feeling of being surrounded by unfamiliar sights and sounds, and the way it makes me see the world in a new way. And when I come back home, I always feel energized and ready to take on new design challenges.
But perhaps the biggest source of inspiration in my life is relationships. My family, my husband Andrew, and my friends are my support system, my sounding board, and my biggest cheerleaders. They inspire me to be the best version of myself, both as a person and as a designer. Whether I'm bouncing ideas off my husband over dinner, brainstorming with my siblings, or laughing with my friends while playing games, these relationships give me the energy and enthusiasm I need to tackle any project.
So there you have it – coffee, travel, and relationships are my three biggest sources of inspiration as a designer. They may seem like totally different things, but they all help me in their own way. The next time you're feeling stuck in your design work, try reaching for a cup of coffee, planning a trip, or reaching out to a loved one (Pinterest is a good stop in the meantime) – you never know where your next burst of inspiration might come from!
