Coffee shops and me: a never-ending love story. But I've always asked myself, why? Why coffee shops? Why perfectly aesthetic areas to drink caffeine? Didn't I already drink coffee before work?

When a discussion has emerged online about creatives living the 9-5 life, an important concept broke out - the need for daily inspiration.

As creatives, I believe we have this intrinsic need to be inspired. It's what helps us do our jobs well! While I work full time in the commercial real estate industry, which seems like lightyears away from the work I do on the blog, if I'm inspired, I'm going to do my best work in all areas of my life.

And don't get me wrong - I get the STRUGGLE of busy weeks, deadlines and impossibly crazy days...but we can't set aside our happiness. Productivity and joy go hand-in-hand, friends.

If this all seems crazy-town to you, here are some tips:

Tangible ways to find inspiration throughout your day:

Grab coffee over lunch
Go on a short walk for a breath of fresh air
Meet up with another creative to brainstorm your side hustle
Browse Pinterest on your walk into work
Try a new restaurant every so often - a change in scenery can be inspiring in itself!
Listen to a creative podcast on your commute
Go for a run before work (or on your lunch break!) Endorphins are such a great way to get the creativity flowing.

I used to think I was ADD, or crazy even, when I felt this NEED to feel inspired...but that's part of who we are - it makes us good at what we do. And that's ok.