Take a quick look at your computer’s desktop. Do you feel inspired yet?
If you’re still rocking the pre-installed desktop wallpaper, probably not. Inspiration’s a tricky thing. Some people find inspiration in pithy quotations; others see it in landscapes, abstract art or a pile of cute kittens. Here are 30 desktop inspirations every Lifehacker will treasure:
1. Stop Asking for Permission
This Banksy-style wallpaper is perfect for artists and other creative types.
Source: Wallbase
2. Simplify (Just Enough)
Einstein is single-handedly responsible for a huge number of inspiring and insightful quotes. This is one of his best.
Source: Wallbase
3. Work Outside the Box
An inspirational desktop wallpaper to live by, for entrepreneurs and freelancers.
Source: Freelance Switch
4. Shine
Look at the bokeh on that! Keep the sparkle in your life with this warm, happy image on your screen.
Source: Inkdryer Creations
5. Design Your Life
Use this one to remind yourself just how much fun creativity is.
Source: MyGFX
6. Be Original
As if you needed telling.
Source: Wallpapers Room
7. Don’t Give Up
If you like to keep your desktop clean and simple, how about this nifty Edison quote?
Source: Wallbase
8. Make Time Your Own
A wallpaper with a built-in calendar lets you stay in touch with time, but prevents you tweaking your schedule to put off getting things done. Here’s one for June 2013.
Source: The Tasselflower Blog
9. Never Stop Learning
If you’ve ever needed a reminder to learn from every moment of your life, grab this school-style inspirational wallpaper to nudge you back on track.
Source: Inkdryer Creative
10. Stand Up for Your Values
More wordy than most of these examples, this inspirational wallpaper’s ideal for activists.
Source: Wallbase
11. Abstract Your Mind
Sometimes, you just want to stare at something beautifully abstract and let it clear your mind.
Source: Bartelme Design
12. Challenge Your Limits
It’s the cheerful font as well as the inspiring message that make this one a winner.
Source: DeviantART
13. Keep on Truckin’
Change is unstoppable, and so are you.
Source: KnightsTavern
14. Have Fun With Fonts
Choose the perfect font for your next inspirational quote.
Source: Squidspot
15. Stand for Something
In the Inspirational Quotes Hall of Fame, MLK hangs out with Einstein and Gandhi. For sure.
Source: Desktop Nexus
16. Live Your Message
Take inspiration from Gandhi’s life and stay true to your message in everything you do.
Source: World HD Wallpaper
17. Stay Healthy
Inspiration doesn’t have to be purely cerebral. Use inspirational wallpaper to remind you of your health goals.
Source: Smashing Magazine
18. Resist Illusions
There is only your perception of wallpaper—and your perception of inspiration.
Source: DeviantART
19. Go All the Way
Use this to keep you moving until you get where you’re going. Apparently this isn’t a real Buddha quote, but it’s still a good one!
Source: Wallbase
20. Find the Right Words
Life is a big adventure with a wide vocabulary. Know how to name your experience.
Source: Desktop Nexus
21. Follow Your Own Path
This desert landscape is beautiful, but it’s the tiny footprints that make it an inspiration to blaze your own trail in life.
Source: FreeHDWallpapers
22. Add a Touch of Zen
This composition of interesting textures is calm and contemplative—exactly how you want to feel when you’re at your computer.
Source: Wallpapers Wide
23. Turn Pirate
You don’t have to own a boat or steal anything. Borrow the cut-throat pirate mindset to pinpoint your priorities and find hidden opportunities.
Source: Desktop Nexus
24. Change the World
This one doesn’t really need an explanation.
Source: Inkdryer Creative
25. Change Your Thinking
Yes, it’s Einstein again with more epic wisdom to help you solve problems.
Source: Desktop Nexus
26. Explore Everything
Whether you’re a backpacker travelling the world or an entrepreneur designing your own business, exploration is a Lifehacker’s driving force.
Source: Inkdryer Creative
27. Live in Permanent Beta
This dark, minimalist desktop wallpaper reminds you that life is an unfinished project.
Source: Inkdryer Creative
28. Look Everywhere
I made this one myself. Feel free to download it.
Source: Be a Freelance Blogger
29. Know Yourself
If you don’t think you’re the “inspirational wallpapers” type, try this instead for a dose of sarcastic humor.
Source: Desktop Nexus
