I like to write. But rather than starting from scratch, I like using different writing prompts. I think that every person who has ever tried to write anything understands the horror of staring at a blank page.

With my 33rd birthday coming up, I thought it would be a nice opportunity to use it as an inspiration for a post. My first idea was: 33 lessons from 33 years.

But a month ago, in January, my online friend posted that exact post. Only in her case, it was 34 lessons learned in 34 years. Yep.

Naturally, I was like:

I’m simply way too stubborn and like to express my individuality too much to publish a similar post so soon. So I started thinking about a different way to use the number 33.

Return to creativity and writing

I dedicated the last couple of years to finding myself and my creativity again and rediscovering my passion for writing.

Therefore, I’ve decided to share with you my 33 sources of inspiration - inspiration to create, to listen to myself, and to let go of anything that isn’t mine.

To be honest, it’s just 33 things that I like. That’s okay too! Let this post be a bit of an insight into my soul for you.

Maybe you’ll find something you also like on the list. Maybe not. But maybe, just maybe, it can inspire you to create your own list and put it somewhere where you can see it every day. Maybe.

Sources of inspiration

The list has 3 parts, each with 11 points: in the first part you can find more cultural sources of inspiration, in the second part, my favourite activities, and in the third part, sources of inspiration from nature.

Music, books, series

1. Alan Watts. Because he always reminds me what truth is and who I really am.

1. Christopher Nolan. Because his movies are structural masterpieces, where all elements of the story are flawlessly connected. And because you can feel from his work that he follows his deepest fascination.
2. Nick Cave. Because he is dedicated to creativity with his body and soul. Because he isn’t a musician, he is a storyteller. Because he stays true to himself and his work.
3. Simon & Garfunkel. Because their songs speak to my heart. Because I never get tired of them.
4. Jacques Brel. Because he too was completely dedicated to his work. Because he knew it’s more important to love than to be loved. Because he loved life.

1. “It can hardly be a coincidence that no language on Earth has ever produced the expression "as pretty as an airport."”1 Because this is the best opening line of any novel of all time ever.

2. Douglas Adams in general. Because he was an unpretentious master of the absurd and humour. Because his works are unique. Because knowing that there are people like Douglas Adams in the world always makes me feel better.

3. Series Psych. Because for me it’s a perfect mix of crime fiction and a specific kind of comedy that I just cannot get enough of.

1. Series It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Because it’s a unique sitcom that holds up a mirror to society on a gazillion levels.
2. Musicals. Because every now and then, I need a bit of melodrama. 
3. Improv shows. Because they always make me laugh. And because they teach me to be present in the moment and to let go of control.

Activities

12. Reading. Because it opens new worlds and calms the soul. And, yes, I’m one of those people who favour physical books over e-books. Not because of any moral reasons, but because I simply much prefer the experience of reading an actual physical book. The only exception is listening to audiobooks. I don’t know why. Probably because I listened to a lot of fairytales on cassette tapes as a child and generally enjoyed being read to.
13. Walks. Because even the shortest possible walk outside is the best thing I can do for myself. Because it clears the brain fog, calms my mind, and helps me put things into perspective.
14. Sewing projects. Because it’s fun to be a beginner. Because it involves a whole different set of skills than the ones I otherwise use in my day-to-day life.

12. Cleaning the house (yes, you’ve read that correctly). Because it helps me quiet my mind. And creates a better environment for me.
13. Colouring. Because this too is a great way to quiet one’s mind and offers a different type of creative outlet.
14. Visiting a bookstore or a library. Because stacks of books reflect an abundance of human creativity and a wish to express one’s ideas. Because I always find the vision of infinite reading material soothing.
15. Dancing. Because it embodies and expresses vibrations that run through your body. Because it’s a pure pleasure and one of the most primal ways of expression.

12. Learning languages and linguistics. Because it broadens my horizons. Because languages are fascinating. Because it offers an insight into how the human mind works. And because it’s a lot of fun. 
13. Playing piano. Because it’s the most awesome instrument - you can play any style and genre and express any emotion with it. And playing other instruments. Because creating music is always wonderful and it brings you to the present moment.
14. Solving logic and linguistic riddles. Because the moment when everything falls into place and you find the answer gives me a special kind of satisfaction. Because it’s crazy fun.
15. Playing board games. Because it’s my favourite social activity. If I win, of course! Just kidding 😁

Nature

23. The woods. Because every visit is a new adventure. Because a part of me finds its home there. Because it smells so good.
24. Storm. Because it releases pressure that has been building up. Because it makes me feel light and powerful. Because it washes away the clutter and creates space for something new.

23. Rustling of leaves in the trees. Because it’s music, created by nature. (And because šelestenje, the word for “rustling” in Slovenian, is my favourite word.)
24. Petrichor – the smell of rain. The best smell ever.
25. River. Because I could watch it for days without end. Because its sound is a real balm to the ear and the soul. Because it symbolizes life with its flow and strength.
26. Herbs. Because they have such power in such a small form. Because they invite you to experience magic.
27. Snow. Because it makes time stand still for a moment and forces you to slow down. And at the same time, it brings out our creativity and playfulness.
28. Thunder. Because it’s one of my favourite sounds.
29. Trees. Because they are strong role models of wisdom, flexibility and groundedness. Because there almost isn’t a problem that sitting under the tree wouldn’t solve.
30. The Moon. Because it’s magical and it has been inspiring poets for centuries.
31. Stars. Because they bring everything into perspective. And because they are magical!

Your turn

I invite you to reflect on what makes your heart sing and nourishes your soul.

What are your sources of inspiration?

The key thing to know is that there are no right or wrong answers, and they may change over time, which is perfectly okay.

Perhaps this means that next year I can write a post about 34 new sources of inspiration. Or by then, I may have gained enough wisdom to write about those 34 lessons, who knows.

Make sure not to miss the next few posts. There is one I am currently working on about rules in art and it’s probably coming to you in two weeks. It's going to be super interesting!

See you soon,

Katja