Design Inspiration: Where I find Creative Ideas and How to Overcome a Creative Block
Intro
Every designer, no matter how experienced, runs into creative block. It’s frustrating, and sometimes even a little scary, especially when you have deadlines looming. But the good news is, inspiration is everywhere. Over time, I’ve developed a list of go-to sources and strategies that help spark creativity and keep the ideas flowing. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a blank screen, this post is for you.
My Favorite Places to Find Design Inspiration
My #1 platform for collecting ideas. I create boards for everything: typography, packaging, color palettes, UI design, you name it. It’s like a visual brainstorming tool, and it helps me connect different ideas in new ways.
Behance and Dribbble
These are great for seeing what other designers around the world are working on. From case studies to concept work, there’s a ton of variety and quality here. I like searching by keywords like “minimalist branding” or “editorial layout” to find exactly what I need.
Magazine and Print Media
There’s something refreshing about stepping away from the screen. I often flip through design books, fashion magazines, and old posters for unique layouts, textures, or color inspiration.
Music and Movies
Sometimes creativity strikes outside of design. A certain lyric, a scene from a film, or an art exhibit can all lead to unexpected ideas. I try to absorb everything like a sponge, you never know what will spark something.
Nature and Everyday Life
Color combinations in nature, interesting architecture, or even a trip to the grocery store can spark design ideas. The key is to stay observant and open to inspiration from unexpected places.
How I Deal with Creative Block
Step Away from the Project
It sounds simple, but it works. If I’m feeling stuck, I give myself permission to walk away, even just for 10 minutes. A change of scenery helps reset my brain.
Do a Creative Warmup
Sometimes I’ll do a quick doodle, mood board, or typography experiment just to get things moving. No pressure, no expectations, just play.
Try a Design Prompt
There are tons of prompt generators and design challenges online (like 36 Days of Type or Daily UI). They help me flex creative muscles without needing a full concept or client brief.
Talk it Out
Explaining your project or challenge to someone else, even if they’re not a designer—can help clarify your thoughts. Sometimes just saying it out loud helps me find a new direction.
Remind Myself it Doesn’t Have to be Perfect
Perfectionism can be the biggest block of all. I’ve learned to give myself permission to make messy drafts and ugly first versions. Creativity is a process, not a performance.
Build a Habit of Curiousity
I keep an “inspo folder” where I save cool designs, fonts, layouts, or color schemes. Even when I’m not working on anything specific, I browse through it and let my brain make connections. Staying curious every day keeps the creative muscles strong.
Final Thoughts
Creative block is normal. It doesn’t mean you’re not talented or inspired, it just means you need a little reset. By knowing where to look for inspiration and having strategies to get unstuck, you can turn those frustrating moments into opportunities for discovery.