[How to overcome running out of illustration ideas] No more struggling with blank screens! A routine for capturing ideas to generate endless creativity from scratch.

The reason you "can't come up with ideas" isn't because you lack talent, but because you "lack the necessary materials."

Many people tend to think they lack creativity, but in reality, it's simply that their brains have limited material to process.

In this article,I've compiled the reasons why ideas dry up and some "idea-generating habits" that I've personally tried and found effective.

What happens when you can't come up with ideas

The input is biased.

"Input is necessary for output."I often hear this phrase,Input = Looking at other illustrationsAre you under the impression that...?

Originally, input comes from novels, movies, music, scenery seen while walking, etc.all kinds of stimulationThis applies to the following:

RatherInspiration from sources other than illustration is more likely to lead to original ideas.That's right.

For a long time, I also believed that "illustration is something you learn through illustration," and as a result, I sometimes ended up using similar expressions.

Trying too hard to come up with the "right idea"

Perfectionism can rigidify your thinking.
I don't want to fail, I don't want to be seen as strange, so I always aim for perfection from the start...
These kinds of feelings can hinder free thinking.
I, too, once struggled because I could only come up with "safe and unremarkable" ideas.

Even if you come up with an idea, there's no mechanism to "collect" it.

Ideas can disappear in an instant.
Not taking notes leads to forgetting, which leads to feeling like you have "no ideas."
This happens all the time. I've also experienced the frustration of thinking, "Wait, where did that good idea from earlier go...?" many times.

I keep thinking about it only in my head.

Ideas won't take shape unless you put them into action.
Sketch a rough draft, write it down in words, make a diagram.
These acts of "putting ideas out into the open" help to cultivate creativity.

They only see AI as a "tool for finding answers."

AI is originally,An external brain that broadens your perspectiveAnd,A good confidantIs.

Instead of simply seeking answers, thinking together broadens perspectives and, through synergy, leads to deeper ideas.

Interacting with AI can be a powerful tool for creative work.

The easiest and most effective method: Carry a notebook with you.

The habit of writing down ideas the moment they come to you dramatically increases the amount of ideas you generate.

Ideas disappear quickly.

Even if it's messy, writing things down helps prevent you from missing important details.

Furthermore, having notes means Materials to consult with AI aboutThe number will naturally increase.

A small notebook that fits in your pocket is ideal.

Why AI-powered idea generation is so powerful

AI can help you delve deeper into your ideas, explore them from different angles, and generate even more suggestions.

It's also ideal for developing scenario ideas.

My Idea Generation Routine

1. I jot down everyday "fragments" in my notebook.
2. Input the situation you want to depict into the AI.
3. We won't generate any images yet; first, we'll ask you to submit 10 ideas in text format.
4. Choose an idea that is easy to imagine and draw a rough sketch.

I won't force myself to adopt ideas I don't understand. Having criteria for selection makes the creative process much easier.

Summary: Ideas don't just "fall from the sky," you have to "catch" them.

Take notes, consult with AI, and take immediate action.

Simply creating this flow will naturally increase your ideas.

Previously, I used to struggle with the problem of "not being able to come up with anything no matter how hard I thought," but this habit has helped me expand my ideas more and more.

Brainstorming is also very effective, so please give it a try.

If you thought, "That was great," or "I'd like to support you,"
Receiving encouragement from OFUSE is very motivating.
This will help with illustration production and blog updates.

Thank you so much for always reading my posts.
I will continue to update this growth record at a leisurely pace.

Pochi

Illustrator

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Illustrator.
This blog is my growth diary as an illustrator.
Opened since June 2023.
Starting YouTube in January 2025.