The 17 Phases Of Every Creative Project

Creative juices aren't always on tap. Don't just wait for inspiration, go after it! Get an inside look at the creative process and find what inspires others at WD Ventito™.

1. So you need an idea.

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We've all been there.

2. And nothing's coming to you.

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Call it writer's/illustrator's/programmer's/creator's block.

3. Literally nothing.

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When you're stuck, staring at a blank page or screen is the worst thing you can do. Get up, go for a walk, do something!

4. Time for a little inspiration!

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Reading for just six minutes can reduce stress levels by up to 68%, which is a must for promoting creativity.

5. Now you're in the zone.

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Studies suggest that innovation is strongest in the off hours of our biological clock, i.e. morning people are more creative at night.

6. Suddenly, a spark of brilliance! EUREKA.

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Ideas "come from every human experience that you've either witnessed or have heard about, translated into your brain in your own sense of dialogue." —Rod Serling

7. Let's think this thing through.

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While scientifically unproven, beards are always good for looking pensive.

8. Nope. That's not gonna work.

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And not everything will! There are no bad ideas when you brainstorm.

9. Back to the drawing board.

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Seriously. Consider drawing out your ideas in a mind map.

10. But wait, what if you change it a bit?

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The process of manipulating images, symbols, and ideas — the imagination — comes from a widespread network of neurons, according to Dartmouth researchers.

11. Yes. Yes. YES!

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OMG, this is genius.

12. Then again, you could probably do this tomorrow...

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13. ...no, no, no — must resist!

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While distractions inhibit logical problem solving, they can actually help with lateral thinking. Don't overwhelm yourself, though!

14. Take a breather and send your work to a colleague...

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15. ...who can give you some constructive feedback.

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Never underestimate the value of a fresh pair of eyes.

16. Revisit the project and revise, revise, revise.

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"Keep it simple, stupid."

17. It's finally DONE.

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And you know, it's kind of perfect.