Contributed by Jennifer Andrews, Catalogs.com Top 10 Guru

Many times in life we may find ourselves feeling down, unmotivated and just uninspired.

This is particularly true when it comes to our jobs, careers, schooling, activities and past-times. It can be easy to fall into a rut and at a loss of ideas for a work project, a lack of motivation to continue an exercise program or a loss of excitement and to get creative with cooking meals.

Consider these top ten thoughts on where to find inspiration when you find yourself needing a boost.

10. Quotes

Seek out and read quotes to help you get out of a rut and find inspiration. Quotes are sentences and phrases that carry a significant meaning and most can be applied to life in general. A positive quote on your wall or above your desk can lift you up and increase your determination to take on a new project or look for new work opportunities when you feel less than capable.

9. Friends

Friends can be a great source of inspiration for most people during difficult situations in life. Not only are friends a great source of support, but they also can give you pep talks to open your eyes up to a whole new way of learning or seeing things. Furthermore, a friend that has struggled and overcome serious obstacles in their life, such as illness or divorce, can be inspiring.

8. Jewelry

Yes, material things can be a source of inspiration! Possessions such as jewelery may carry a significant meaning or symbol that can inspire you. Wearing a cross on a chain around your neck can remind you of your faith in seeking a greater purpose. Similarly, a simple bracelet or pendant that spells a word such as peace or love can inspire you to be a better person, spouse, sibling, child or friend.

7. Family

Similar to friend, family members can be a great source of inspiration to you during the simplest or most difficult times in your life. Family members can help spark new ideas and thoughts of what to do next in life such as if you are questioning a career path or moving to a new city.

6. Books

Books have the ability to inspire and help us see events, situations and life in a different manner. Specifically, self-help books can give us new tools to spark the creative process when you are feeling stagnant. However, even light reading, such as chick lit or comedic novels, can help lighten up our moods and refresh us to take on a new task or activity.

5. Internet

Yes, the computer can be a productive tool for you! The internet is full of various websites that can spark your interest and creativity to help you find inspiration. Try perusing various cooking websites or blogs to look for new recipes to cook for your family or even shop online to find new items you otherwise may not find in stores.

4. New Hobbies

Partaking in the same day to day activities can often lead to disinterest and a lack of inspiration. Try branching out and finding new hobbies to participate in by signing up for a new dance class, joining a softball team, swimming or even a cooking class. Start simple by joining a book club or overcome your fears and sign up for guitar or swimming lessons no matter what your age.

3. Children

Often when we are uninspired, we feel down, depressed and generally low in energy. Children on the other hand are full of energy, new insights and see the world in a different way than adults do. Spend some time playing with your children, babysitting or even observing children at a park to perk up your mood and inspire you.

2. Pictures

If you are feeling uninspired, consider looking at pictures to inspire you. Whether you are flipping through old photo albums, decorating with inspiring works of art, looking through websites or at museum, beautiful pictures and paintings have the ability to jump-start your creative mind.

1. Nature

Nature is one of the ultimate ways to find inspiration in life. A beautiful setting, such as snowflakes falling on a chilly winter evening or trees changing color during the fall can help you see the beauty and natural transitions of life. It also reminds us that there is more to life than just us and to appreciate what we have been given. A heightened awareness and spirit can inspire anyone to seek new opportunities in life or break through a creative rut.