Innovation—it’s just one lightbulb moment after another, right? The great inventors of the world are constantly struck with dazzling new ideas, effortlessly creating the next big thing.

Ha! If only.

The truth is, we all hit those idea droughts. The well runs dry, the sparks fizzle out, and suddenly we’re asking ourselves, “Seriously, who’s hoarding all the lightbulbs?”

If you’ve been stuck in this kind of creative rut—or just need a few fresh ideas to shake things loose—you’re not alone. And the good news? There are ways to get those lightbulbs glowing again.

How to Spark New Ideas When Inspiration Isn’t Showing Up

1. Talk to People

Have real conversations. Sit down with five people, ask them general, open-ended questions (think: “If you could give yourself anything—real or imaginary—what would it be?”) and start chatting.

Why? Talking to others—especially our customers—gets us out of our own head and into theirs. These aren’t feedback sessions; they’re discovery missions. The goal? To explore what’s going on in their lives, whether or not it directly connects to our work. These conversations are goldmines for fresh perspectives and hidden sparks of inspiration. 

Some of my go to questions:

• What’s something you’ve read or watched recently that stuck with you? Why?

• What’s giving you a headache this week?

• What’s one thing on your to-do list?

2. Study Other Industries

Explore what’s happening outside your bubble. Dive into the challenges and solutions other industries are wrestling with.

Why? Cross-pollination isn’t just for bees—it’s a powerhouse for innovation. Learning about something unrelated to our day-to-day industry can ignite unexpected ideas. Once you come across something that makes you say “wow, that’s cool” ask yourself “how can I connect that to my work/product/consumers?” 

Resources that make it easy to think beyond your immediate bubble:

• Websites:

  • Deloitte’s Annual Industry Outlook Reports

  • WSJ Future of Everything

• Podcasts:

  • Hidden Brain

  • Armchair Expert

3. Return to the Basics

This one is for my career innovators out there: After years in the game, it’s easy to dismiss our early brainstorming tools, labeling them as outdated or “beginner-level.” But sometimes, going back to basics is exactly what we need to get the wheels turning again.

What do I mean by “basics”?

• Dial Down AI. Yes, AI is shiny and exciting (I love it too), but trying to figure out how to brainstorm with AI while also trying to brainstorm often leads to underwhelming results.

• Pull Out the Paper. Step away from the screen. Seriously. There’s something liberating about good ol’ pen and paper—or sticky notes—when it comes to brainstorming. It’s a chance to declutter your mind and refocus.

• Hit Up Your OG Innovation Books. Remember The Innovator’s Dilemma? Or Sprint? These classics are gathering dust on our shelves, but they still pack a punch. Revisit them for suggestions and techniques that work. The one I recently put back on my desk: How to Have Kickass Ideas (it’s still a gem after all these years).

Reclaiming Our Innovation Swagger

I’d love to say I wrote this article solely for your benefit, but the truth is, I needed it too. I’ve been in an inspiration rut, and my lightbulbs have felt more like dim nightlights lately. So, as I work to reignite my creative flow, I hope these tactics help you reclaim yours. Innovation is waiting—let’s go find it.