Feeling Uninspired? The Top 7 Go-To’s for Startup Inspiration
As entrepreneurs, we don't need much to get us through the workday—perhaps a desk, a couple cups of coffee and a full to-do list usually keeps us productive throughout the day. But when you're done checking off the to-do's for the day and need to come up with your next big idea, where do you go for inspiration?
- Other Entrepreneurs
In a 2011 Think Big Partners poll, 64% of entrepreneurs found inspiration from simply surrounding themselves with other entrepreneurs. This can be achieved in a variety of different ways. Many entrepreneurs choose to work from coworking spaces where they can collaborate and interact with other like-minded individuals who are experiencing the same startup issues that they are. Simply grabbing coffee with another entrepreneur can also provide inspiration and brainstorming. If you're feeling unmotivated or uninspired, sometimes sitting next to another entrepreneur during a day of work and cure your problem!
- Entrepreneurial Books
Although entrepreneurs rarely have time to sit down and have a good read, they may have time to skim and inspirational book by a famous entrepreneur. Books can provide great startup advice, smart business practices, noteworthy tips, and motivational tid-bits. Try reading books from entrepreneurs like Richard Branson, Tony Hsieh, Steve Jobs, Michael Dell, etc. These entrepreneurs have been there, done that and have written about the recipe for startup success.
- Startup Blogs
In a Think Big Partners survey, it was found that 38% of entrepreneurs enjoy skimming entrepreneurial blogs and articles in order to get inspired during a hectic workday. There are thousands of startup blogs on the web (both local, national and global) that can provide tips, tricks and inside scoops about the world of entrepreneurship. Some of the best startup blogs include TechCrunch and Mashable.
- Free Time
Sometimes, entrepreneurs come up with their best ideas when they're away from work. Taking walks outside, cleaning the house or eating dinner at a restaurant can trigger inspirational thoughts on a whole new level. In fact, many entrepreneurs note that exercise is one of the number one ways to get the ideas pumping. Exercise energizes your body and your brain so use your free time wisely! Go for a brisk run, jump on the elliptical or start lifting weights to keep your body and brain healthy.
- Business Events
According to the Think Big Partners poll, 29% of entrepreneurs go to business events in order to get inspired. Many business events feature motivational keynote speakers that can provide an up-close-and-personal view on entrepreneurship, tell jaw-dropping startup stories and speak one-on-one with audience members. In addition, many business events provide question and answers sessions which can trigger important thoughts in an entrepreneur's mind. Check out events like Think Big or TEDx; these inspirational business events can be hosted anywhere throughout the nation.
- Music
Every entrepreneur has that song—the song that inspires them, that gets their feet tapping, that pumps them up for another day of hard work. Listening to your favorite motivational song in the morning before you go to work could inspire you to think big during the workday. Try setting your favorite song as your ringtone or plug it into your iPod playlist. A few inspirational lyrics can go a long way!
- Entrepreneur-based Movies
When entrepreneurs do find a little free time in their schedules, some enjoy renting a movie or going to the movie theater. Why not have a little fun and get inspired at the same time by watching entrepreneur-based movies? You can check off "date night" and "work research" at the same time! Not sure what to watch first? Check out our list of the Top 10 Motivational Films for Entrepreneurs and take your pick!