What are your favourite references to lean on?

I’m attempting my first solo project (hence my recent questions), and I’m struggling to find references to grab onto.<br><br>I find it much easier to be inspired with references than anything else.<br><br>For example, Stormlight, Elder Scrolls and Warhammer are all built heavily off of references to real world things.<br><br>What are your go-to references when creating your worlds?<br><br>Do you reference folklore, mythology or real world history?<br><br>What modern media do you find yourself drawing from?<br><br>How do you ensure that your world is original or unique enough, despite using references as the foundation?