Are you energized this morning or are you wading through messages about overcoming burnout and finding meaning in your work in hopes of finding a gold nugget of inspiration? Sometimes, inspiration is much more accessible than you think. It may just be a matter of perspective.
There are at least a couple of ways to define inspiration. Inspiration is the drawing in of breath. If you are reading this, you have that one covered. It’s time to move on to another level. The second view of inspiration is a little more complicated. It has to do with mental stimulation. In particular, inspiration is the stimulation to do something bold or creative. Perhaps your first thought about a creative stimulant on Monday morning is a stiff cup of coffee. That’s not a bad idea, but before you grab another mug and pour more caffeine into your tank, take a moment and reflect. Consider the fact that inspiration begins on the inside and works its way out. What’s happening inside your head this morning will affect how you live and lead.
If you want to harness the power of inspiration you need to get a grip on three important truths.
First, you must believe in your own creative capacity. If you begin the day hindered by a lack of creative energy, you may be choosing to ignore an undeniable fact. There’s not another you. You have something unique to offer today. Challenge yourself to become the best version of you and then find the courage to offer your personal contribution to the world around you.
Second, you must increase your level of self-awareness and social awareness. The day offers opportunities to exercise your creative giftedness. It’s far too easy to let them escape. Opportunities do not always smack you in the face. You may choose to ignore them or you may simply be distracted by the busyness of the day. This is the only opportunity you have to live this day. It’s more than a carpe diem attitude. Stretch and learn. Look and listen.
Third, you will discover that inspiration is contagious. Your creativity will unleash potential in others. Something magnificent happens when you have the courage to fan the flame. You become a catalyst. Translate today’s inspiration into tomorrow’s masterpiece. As you learn to exercise your imagination you will breathe more deeply and increase your mindfulness of opportunities to impact the lives of others. Inspiration is fuel to the soul.
As long as you’re breathing, keep stretching.