4 Ways To Stay Inspired As A Creative Business Owner

The hardest question I get is always, “How do you come up with your stuff?” 

Uhhh, my brain? is usually my answer. Duh, that’s true but I usually come off sounding like an asshole. The truth is, my inspiration comes from everywhere–the things I do, people I know, motherhood, my hobbies, being married, owning a business. All of those things are a part of me and when I’m not completely overwhelmed (ha!), these are the things that inspire me.

I pride myself on how I put who I am in to what I do.

So it should be no surprise that the majority of things that get (and keep) me inspired are people I love and things I enjoy. Look, this isn’t a magical post that will teach you how to live an inspired life 100% of the time. It is a post about how being inspired starts with a choice. I choose to stop, look around, appreciate and find joy. It’s a conscious decision and I’m still a rookie. But here are things that help keep me inspired:

My kids keep me inspired by making me aware of my limits.

My kids have taught me patience like I never knew I was capable of and that translates so well in to the business side of my life. A deep breath and reminder of what the “big picture” is keeps me (mostly) sane in both parenting and being a boss.

My business is a pairing of mom life and business life while taking the time to enjoy the things that make you happy (wine) on a daily basis.

My husband keeps me inspired by reminding me to find humor in everything.

I married a smart ass who sometimes drives me crazy. I have a tendency to suck the joy out of life when I’m stressed out. He reminds me that it’s necessary to laugh. A lot.

Running keeps me inspired by taking me out of my comfort zone.

Two years ago I started trail running. There is nothing like running in the mountains. Nothing. As someone who has struggled with anxiety all my life, my mind never feels as at ease as it does running the trails. I’ve gone distances I never dreamed I would. I’ve gained amazing friendships through running–you get to know a person realllll well when you’re on an 18 mile run with them. More than anything, after every run, I’m reminded that I can do hard things.

The key to staying inspired is getting the f*ck away from my computer.

It took me a long time to realize that I’m much more productive overall if I give myself a break by doing something I enjoy. I have to get out of the house. Maybe go on a run. Play outside with my kids. Sitting in front of my computer for hours on end is the ultimate killer of creativity.

What do you do to stay inspired? I’d love to hear your tips!