Ideas to Inspire Great Hubs

I’ve only been “hubbing” as they call it for two weeks, but I am curious what inspires people to hub? Besides original content and expertise in a niche (which are important), getting those juices flowing can sometimes be a chore.

Here are some ways to trigger a burst of creativity.

1. Read other hubs. When you find a detail in that hub that is only touched upon, use it as a springboard for an entire hub. I found a hub that reviewed a pirate museum and it sparked an idea. Why not write a hub about classic pirate movies for kids or ways to construct a pirate costume on a low budget? If nothing else, you'll know how to dress up like Jack Sparrow at your next Halloween party.

2. Read the news. Oftentimes a story will jump out and reach you in your gut. Why not write a hub exploring the topic in depth. The Sandusky trial inspired me to write about sexual abuse and the psychology behind manipulation. The only other reason to read the news is if you want to become sorely depressed.

3. Go to the grocery store. Meander up and down the aisles and imagine the possibilities. What if you wrote a hub comparing the nutrition information of cereals for parents? You'll probably manage to buy some groceries in the process and then your family won't be mad about all your hubbing.

4. Read about writing. Writing is a craft and an art, and there is nothing like reading the book Writing Down to the Bones to make you feel like you can do anything. Am I a nerd because I cried five pages in?

5. Go on Pinterest. This one’s a bit dangerous because you may just be sucked into the land of beautiful photos and never come out. However if you find something that moves you, pick a detail out of the picture and write a hub about that one detail. You’ll be amazed what you can find.

6. Ask your kids. They are full of creativity and energy. Within minutes you’ll have at least ten topics you can write about. My kids told me I should write about peanut butter and jelly. I think it’s a good idea.

7. Talk a walk. Try to notice things that you haven’t before- the color combinations of houses, the landscaping, even a strange mailbox. Come back and write down all the new details you notice. Don't hub about your neighbor's underwear on the clothesline.

8. Visit your in-laws and get into an argument. Well okay maybe it’s not the best way to get inspired, but you might come away with an idea about politics, religion, or some other hot-button topic that’s sure to spark interest.

9. Watch a good movie. Observe the characters and the plot. Take in the surroundings. Did you visit the restaurant in the scene? Perhaps you like the actor and want to write a hub all about his/her career.

10. Think about all the compliments you received in the last week. Hopefully you did get some! What did people say about you? Are you a fabulous cook, great at putting an outfit together, or a good listener? Write about it.

11. Journal everyday. First thing in the morning, grab a notebook and write about the first fifteen things that pop into your head. It doesn’t matter if they are mundane thoughts like “pick up the dry cleaning” or “go to the doctor”. You’ll be surprised how your mind can springboard off of these ideas if you let yourself wander.

12. Don’t obsess about your hubs! If you get too hyper focused, you end up missing the whimsical inspiration that made you begin in the first place. It’s easy to get stuck in a rut or try to mimic someone else’s success. Fretting over losing that money-making idea will zap your creativity faster than anything. For years the mind has continued to come up with new ideas, new thoughts, and new inspirations. Ideas will not run out- I promise.

I'm not one to take myself too seriously. I realize that my gift of sarcasm can bring interest to extremely boring topics and so I've set about to do that. I hope you find a detail of inspiration the next time you feel zapped of creativity!

Watch Ellen try to read 50 Shades of Grey.

-Julie DeNeen
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