What inspires you? (Whatever it is, I may need to borrow it.)

I can’t tell you how many Communication Arts magazines I studied in my early years as a copywriter. I’d sit in a brainstorm with three or four other creatives and we’d all be looking down, flipping pages, searching for inspiration in other people’s work. Drooling with envy, too, I'm sure. To be honest, it was actually really productive.

Today I find inspiration everywhere other than in a trade mag. There are a few obvious places: websites, design blogs, ad awards. But I can get ideas from song lyrics, menus, my nephew’s artwork (don’t ask), greeting cards, a visit to the dog park. When I'm struggling I take a hike. One that's uphill and off trail. And when all else fails, I sleep on it and try again the next day.

I'm curious — what inspires you? When you're actively working on something, do you have a go-to site/blog/book/magazine that helps you be more creative? Or a process you follow (or don't follow)?

Came across this message while out on a hike with my dog. I mean, whoever wrote this did say please so ...