April 3, 2025
Social media is a double-edged sword when it comes to creativity. On one hand, it’s a relentless scroll of comparison and noise. On the other, it’s an endless well of inspiration, if you know where to look.
The key is curating your feed to work for you, not against you. Here’s how to turn social media from a distraction into your greatest creative ally.
1. Follow the Right Accounts (Then Mute the Rest)
Not all inspiration comes from obvious sources. Yes, follow artists, writers, and designers in your field—but also seek out:
- Unexpected creatives (chefs, scientists, architects)
- Curators (accounts that compile interesting work, like PresentAndCorrect, TheJealousCurator or It’s Nice That )
- People who think differently (philosophers, comedians, activists)
And if an account leaves you feeling drained rather than inspired? Mute it. No guilt.
2. Save Now, Create Later
Inspiration strikes at the worst times—usually when you’re mid-conversation or halfway through a deadline. Use social media’s built-in tools:
- Pinterest boards for visual ideas
- Instagram Collections for posts that catch your eye
- Bookmark folders on Twitter/X for threads worth revisiting
The trick is to organise as you go – otherwise, you’ll end up with a digital junk drawer of half-formed ideas.
3. Engage, Don’t Just Consume
Passive scrolling breeds envy; active engagement breeds creativity. Instead of just liking a post, ask:
- “What do I love about this?”
- “How could I adapt this idea for my own work?”
- “What’s the thought process behind it?”
Comment, DM, or even screenshot with your own notes. Turn inspiration into a conversation.
4. Step Away When Needed
Social media is a firehose of ideas, sometimes you need to turn it off to let your brain process what you’ve absorbed. Schedule regular breaks to:
- Journal about what inspired you
- Sketch or free-write based on saved posts
- Go analogue (books, galleries, long walks)
Creativity needs breathing room.
5. Create Your Own Inspiration Loop
Finally, don’t just take – contribute. Share your work, your process, even your unfinished ideas. You’ll often find that the act of posting sparks new connections, feedback, or directions you hadn’t considered.
Social media is what you make it. Curate wisely, engage thoughtfully, and don’t forget to step back when needed. Now, what’s inspired you lately?
If you want to talk more about social media, creativity or just have a good chat – you know where to find us!