I think this is why we have so many cliches in this area since it's a universal problem. "well-rounded", "informed citizen", "having a life", "attitude adjustm

I think this is why we have so many cliches in this area since it's a universal problem. "well-rounded", "informed citizen", "having a life", "attitude adjustment", "stopping to smell the roses" Inspiration comes from life. I read blogs, news, and have real life experiences. Maybe your life involves working out, listening to music, fine dining, politics, environmentalism, drinking, traveling, farming... Then combine that with a desire to improve the condition of humanity. We are motivated by deeper, more timeless issues than say setting up a server to do X task. Staying on track with side project work means making space for it also, and being comfortable with the technology you're using (use what you enjoy).