Unlocking Creativity: How to Show Up Even When Inspiration Fades

Some days, inspiration flows effortlessly. Other days—like today—it feels like trying to squeeze water from a stone. The cold, dreary weather here in Upstate New York certainly isn’t helping, and honestly? I would’ve loved to stay curled up under the covers.

But life has a way of nudging us forward, sometimes in the form of a persistent, four-legged alarm clock. My pup doesn’t care if I’m feeling uninspired—5 a.m. means it’s time to get up, no excuses!

On days like this, I lean on the wisdom of one of my favorite authors, Elizabeth Gilbert. In a past Ted Talk, she shared a truth that always sticks with me:

"If you want it to be better, you've got to show up and do your part of the deal. But if you don't do that, you know what, the hell with it. I'm going to keep writing anyway because that's my job. And I would please like the record to reflect today that I showed up for my part of the job."

Her words are a powerful reminder that creativity isn’t just about waiting for inspiration to strike—it’s about showing up, doing the work, and trusting the process.

So, if you’re feeling stuck today, take a cue from Liz. Show up anyway. Even if it’s messy, even if it’s not your best, even if you’d rather be anywhere else. Because the act of showing up is what keeps the creative spark alive.

What’s one small step you can take today—uninspired or not? Drop it in the comments! Let’s keep showing up together.

Here’s to showing up,
Megan

P.S. - If you haven’t read her latest book Big Magic, please put it on your “to-read” list  – it’s beyond wonderful!