I wonder if I'm getting tired of making websites for people. I just "fired" two longtime clients today without really caring all that much. Not for no reason. They just were asking too much for too little. And I was getting bored of them. When I think about what I want to do in my spare time, the first thing I think about is creative writing. The last thing I think about is code and website design. It didn't used to be this way.

There are 2 different issues there.

Clients that ask too much and pay too small, well that's not really an issue, as I think you did the right thing. You don't need them, there are other (and better) clients.

You bored by making websites is the real problem I see. Try to take some vacation maybe ? And if you have the time, why not start a small side-project in a domain that you're curious about ? To stay stimulated :)

What I usually do for cheap clients is to give them longer turnout times. The longer I take the less I charge for such tasks. This way I can do the task when I feel like as compared to taking the time out and making a better product in a timely manner for better paying clients.

As for the getting bored part, youre probably no longer motivated with doing the same thing over and over again. Take vacation! Or if you have the time, try something different. I went into street photography this way. I usually spend a night with my friend taking photos of the city and then eating out with them after. It helps me do something new, I get bored with clients too from time to time.

Oh and I usually try taking a week out every few months. During this one week I stay away from the computer. Helps your mind relax. Stay away from your computer.