Last week I ran a poll asking you, the readers of WritingThoughts, to share what inspired you.
16 people, which is approximately 10% of you (since I usually have between 100 and 150 readers) answered.
I thought I’d share the results, although I’m sure they are by no means definitive. I did find them somewhat interesting.
In the poll there were five choices for a source of inspiration. The sources were:
- Art, Literature, or Music
- Other People
- Your Environment (nature and your surroundings)
- Competition
- Pressure to Perform (deadlines)
The big shocker, at least to me, was that only one person responded that deadlines inspire them. Since deadlines are so prevalent in our industry I had really expected that number to be higher. Evidently, we’re not the sort to be motivated by pressure.
Apparently no one who reads this blog is trying to “keep up with the Joneses,” because no one is inspired by competition. I have to admit, that was a little bit of a surprise for me too. I’ve always known people who set their goals according to what other people are doing.
We had a three-way tie (five votes each) between Art, Literature, or Music, Other People, and Your Environment. So, those categories are the winners as far as providing us with inspiration.
Did you participate? Of course the poll was anonymous, but if you’d like to share more about what you selected feel free to leave a comment. If you missed the poll but would like to share what inspires you, you are also welcome to leave a comment.
Contents (c) Copyright 2007, Laura Spencer. All rights reserved
9 responses so far ↓
1 Helen Ginger // Oct 19, 2007 at
I missed participating in the poll, but if I were to choose it would be a toss up between literature and the environment. I’m often inspired (to do my best) by good books and eloquent authors. On the other hand, I am also inspired by nature and take lots of pictures while traveling. Sometimes I’ll ride with my husband on a golf outing. He plays. I snap pictures.
2 Rosa // Oct 23, 2007 at
I didn’t get to participate in this poll but I would have to say that the money inspires me. I have five children and am very glad that my husband and I have good jobs. I am a freelance writer and would defiantly say that the money inspires me to write. I also get inspired by the thrill I have when I see my name in bold letters right beside a Published By:
3 Mihaela Lica // Oct 23, 2007 at
Well, I wouldn’t call “deadlines” an inspiration either. Maybe motivation? I see that most of participants were inspired by art, music and literature, which is not a surprise considering your audience. 🙂
4 Laura // Oct 23, 2007 at
Hi Helen, Rosa, and Mig!
Helen – I think that’s very resourceful of you to snap pictures while your husband plays golf. That way, both of you enjoy the outing.
Rosa – You came up with some ideas that I didn’t even think of. You’re right, of course, money and notoriety can be powerful motivators.
Mig – Actually, I was surprised. The readers are more alike than I had originally thought. I really expected that there would be more of a clear winner too.
5 Krissy // Oct 23, 2007 at
Hi, I didn’t see the poll, so I didn’t vote. But what inspires me is other people. This is b/c people are the most important thing in life. Far more important than literature or art, they are just entertainment and cultural learning. And people are definitely more important than the environment. After all, who are we trying to save the environment for? People. People are the most important things in the world. They have spirits, and are worthy to be loved and appreciated. Each one is unique and special, and should be valued. Each one brings their own talents, and that is why I am most inspired by people. I can’t imagine any other answer. 🙂
6 Laura // Oct 24, 2007 at
Hi Krissy!
That’s a great answer.
7 Krissy // Oct 27, 2007 at
Thanks, Laura! I really enjoy your blog, and find it very helpful 🙂
8 Walusimbi & Co. // Jun 9, 2013 at
When developing ideas one has to be ruthless in fine-tuning and tweaking them. First, brainstorm ideas and land on one or two that are worth further exploration. Next, let them percolate for a little while. It is amazing how powerful at problem-solving the subconscious mind can be. Then, start expanding and tweaking the ideas. Let them percolate again, just so they get another fresh look. Finally, fine-tune them and go live.
9 Laura Spencer // Jun 12, 2013 at
Walusimbi & Co.–I’m glad you enjoyed the post.