You know that I'm a sucker for link lists--and here's one that you've gotta check out!

100 (Non-Design) Blogs that Every Web Designer Should Read

It's packed with everything from technical tools to blogs on the freelance life. Yes, this one is included, but there are 99 just-as-fabulous links on there too. Check them out--even if you're not a designer there is some good stuff included!

Artwork by Tine Wiggens


If you ask me, inspiration is everything. Sure, I run a creative business. But I need the fuel to keep going, because as many of you know, not all projects are quite motivational. As a copywriter, I have to write about not-so-fun stuff sometimes (medical devices, lawn care, construction, the economy...you get the idea).

That's why I'm huge on drawing in the good stuff. And having the ability to redo my office has perked me up when it comes to inspiration.



What's on my magnetic strip right now:) (That's a tickets to see the Pats play the Jets--not a Jets fan!!!)

It all started with the perfect shade of green. Then choosing the right shelving. Collecting artwork for the walls (can't wait to hang up my artwork of Tine's soulbirds!!), and most recently, the magnetic strip. The room isn't done, but it's on the way. My favorite thing is that I've designed it so I can feature my ever-changing inspirations.

Inspiration comes in all forms, doesn't it? But I think we often forget to fill our creativity tanks. And we let the rest of the things in our lives drain them.

That's why perusing this list of creative books coming out in 2009, for example, is a great help. Or visiting an inspirational place you love, such as a gallery or a greenhouse. You can visit the blog of your favorite artist. Or sitting in the sun. Whatever works for you to relax you or motivate you.

What inspires you? How do you keep your creative tank full?

Credit




I love what I do -- until it starts draining me.

That's what's been going on lately. I'm working my tail off on several projects and on two steady jobs that I love. But there's not time for much of anything else. I work late, go to bed, get up and literally go back to work. I have to right now.

The good thing is that I seem to come out of these work comas. I make time to relax and do more things I enjoy. I free up my schedule and stop piling work on myself. But it can take a while. Let's be practical: sometimes you need a paycheck and that's your focus. Sometimes when you have a chance to work, you want to take on a million things. Or just one time-consuming one. And that's okay.

But I am curious to hear what you all do to get out of a work rut. Not a creative rut, no. The kind of rut where you're working your tail off (on something creative or not) and exhausted. YOu know you just have to hang on a little longer and things will be alright.

Do you do anything to get out of the hard times? Is it more difficult to have a work rut happen because you're used to being a free bird and not held down by mandated work and work times?