What do you do when you are not inspired?

1. Break it down

• Make a list of the small parts of your project.


• Anthony Trollope, a 19th century writer said “A small daily task… will beat the labour of spasmodic hercules"


• Do anything to move the ball. Don’t end the day having done nothing to progress your work.

1. Rely on your preparation

• Day work and Night work


• leave your work half finished and now all you have to do is complete your idea.

1. Get a ritual

• Woody Allen famously said “80% of success is showing up”


• put your shoes on


• loses idea of a token.

1. Harness the power of Frequency

• frequency makes starting easier


• frequency keeps ideas fresh


• frequency keeps the pressure off


• frequency sparks creativity


• frequency nurtures frequency

1. Prune the branches

• Eventually the new branches will steal resources from the initial branches. Eventually the entire vine will succumb to systemic mediocrity.


• Cut out anything that is not essential

We don't have the luxury of inspiration. Inspiration is a nice companion on our journey to brilliance, but it is not a necessary companion at the beginning of the journey. Inspiration tends to join you when you are already on your way.

• Todd Henry