Yes, absolutely! I think everyone gets a creative block at some point. I try to reenergize myself by “feeding my eyes!” I have tons of books and magazines, as well as an extensive collection of greeting cards, food wrappers, record albums, clothing tags, postage stamps, menus, postcards, etc. Pretty much anything that includes design, illustration, or colors that inspire me. I also search the Internet for ideas. Web sites like Pinterest, Instagram, and Tumblr always have lots of images that provide a spark. My 6-year-old daughter is one of my best inspirations. She allows me to see the world from a completely different—and very beautiful—perspective. Inspiration is everywhere—you just have to be open to it.

I talk to and view the work of other artists and designers all the time. It is important to stay current on trends, processes, technology, and always be learning. You have to be willing to change and reshape your ideas to push yourself a little further every day. I also practice illustrating all the time—I doodle on everything. Like any other discipline, illustration is a practice. The more you do it, the better you will be. I try to “see” as much visually interesting “stuff” as I can.

Honestly, I think you just feel it in your core! When a project is a good fit, it is a little electrifying and the ideas just start to flow immediately. I get butterflies. I can’t wait to get to work on it. I think about it all the time—and smile.

I think the biggest challenge about illustrating Your Core was literally “painting a picture” about something you cannot see with your eyes. Callie and I brainstormed a variety of ideas for each spread. We had to create images that would universally resonate with all types of people—of all ages. It was a pretty exciting challenge.