Be Your Own Inspiration

Image via Unsplah/Danka Peter

Inspiration is the internal fire pit that exists inside of us, fueling us to action and innovation. Although we each possess this fire, how strong it grows depends on how we cultivate it.

Inspiration isn’t a light switch that can be turned on and off at will. It’s going to take some effort on your part, but it can be developed. The trick is figuring out what inspires you, because it’s different for each and every one of us.

Theodore Roosevelt once said, “Believe you can and you’re halfway there.”

Nourish Your Body And Mind

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“Junk in, junk out.” Did your grandfather ever tell you that? Turns out, it’s actually true. Inspiration needs the proper environment to thrive so the first step in being your own inspiration is to maintain good health

It’s probably not news to you that keeping physically fit and well nourished is as important to your brain as it is to your body. But most people take better care of their cars than they do themselves. Are you actually caring for your body so that it functions at optimal performance?

If inspiration is a fire, you want yours burning at the highest intensity. That requires premium fuel. Invest a little time into learning about what is in the food you’re eating. Dump packaged food and anything with ingredients that you can’t pronounce. If you can’t cook, or don’t want to cook, figure out a way to feed yourself healthy foods. Subscribe to a meal service or plan that provides you simple menus. Feed your brain and body junk and you will get junk out of them.

Fires also require oxygen so do some heavy breathing and get some exercise while you’re at it.

Stir Up Your Emotions

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Take a look at some of the simple things in life that make you happy, angry or sad. What moves you to really feel deeply? Is it a memory from your childhood that makes you happy? Or even sad. Is there an injustice in the world that angers you?

Have a cocktail or two if it helps you get in touch with your sensitive side but, however you do it, tap into your deepest feelings so you can consider what they do to inspire you to action. You don’t have to actually share your thoughts with anyone, but just taking the time to acknowledge them can have a profound impact on your understanding of what drives you. These feelings are your inspiration.

As a side note, try to keep a positive angle on any negative feelings. Don’t discount the fact that you have negative feelings, we all have them; just try to figure out a positive way to channel them.

Look Beyond The Tried And True

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Even the sharpest knives need to be resharpened and you’re no exception.

Find inspiration by challenging yourself on a daily basis, even if it’s just with the crossword puzzle. As you accomplish smaller tasks you’ll begin to crave bigger challenge and start to seek out greater goals.

Expanding your social networks outside of your typical circles can also inspire and influence creativity. Look at the people in your everyday life and consider relationships with those outside of your immediate comfort zone. Interact with those with different personalities and opinions and you’ll gain fresh perspective and insight. That alone can lead to inspiration. After all, you don’t have to be a Buddhist to be influenced by the teachings of Ghandi.

Being your own inspiration requires a sort of getting “back to basics.” You don’t need to experience life altering events or to study under revolutionary mentors, although that would definitely help. Start with the simple: Nurture your body and mind, acknowledge and understand your emotions, and challenge yourself regularly. With a strong ability to be your own inspiration, you’ll be able to take your career or business to the next level.