Design

Sad news today, my Microsoft Comfort Mouse is broken. My left mouse button sticks ever so slightly which for most people wouldn't be a big deal but in applications like Photoshop and Illustrator the rebound time of a mouse button is critical. With this in mind I'm taking this opportunity to upgrade my mousing technologies! The decision? The Logitech MX Revolution. Check out the below video and review.

 

Just Creative Design has a great list of 101 sources for graphical design inspiration.

Sean Hodge at PSDTuts has a practical guide to getting into the creative flow. I know from my experience there are times when its difficult to get the creative thoughts flowing from mind to mouse. Here's his four steps:

1. Create your optimal environment for working on your creative projects. For me it's my office, mine is like a cave, or a big closet. It's as removed as possible. Situated in a far corner of my house. That way external distractions are minimized and I'm able to focus.
2. Each day prioritize your tasks. Arrange them so that you have time to focus on the creative part of a project. Schedule this time of day during your peak performance hours. For me that's in the morning. Fully commit to this time. Turn off your email, your phone, and your feeds. Don't allow anything to break your concentration. Lock the door if you have to and turn on some music.
3. Start creating. Fully enjoy this creative time and be in the moment. Allow yourself to ignore your internal needs. Let time and worries drift away from your conscious. Focus deeper and become completely absorbed in your work.
4. Continue to push and challenge yourself in your work. If a problem presents itself that is to complex. Quickly break it down into manageable parts and keep working, keep flowing, and keep creating.

 

I recommend reading his full guide to finding your creative flow.