I walked past a coffee store just recently and saw a sign that said I don’t need another inspirational quote I just need coffee! It made me laugh out loud – and go in to buy coffee. Sometimes though we all need inspiration. Inspiration for a project, creativity to make things work, motivation when life gets tough. Fortunately, it’s easier than you think to find a source of inspiration – its literally all around us.
Here are five quick and easy ways to find inspiration:
1. Use quotes and affirmations.
Pinterest and Instagram are filled with inspiration quotes and affirmations. It’s easy to just keep scrolling but I often find no matter how many times you read or hear your favorite quote, it resonates with you almost as much as the very first time you heard it. I have a quote board on Pinterest that I regulary add to and of course I create images of my favourite quotes too. More often than not the ones I choose to use are ones that speak straight into where I am at.
Look for quotes and affirmations that reflect right where you are so you can gain the inspiration to keep on being.
2. Find inspirational imagery.
Sometimes you come across inspiration by spotting something in nature, like a beautiful sunset or the constant crash of waves. Other times you may be inspired by a photograph, an image in a book, or a painting at an art gallery. I like to look for the little details when I am in a new place.
Once you find an image that inspires you don’t just save it to your phone – make it a screensaver or print it out and place it somewhere you’ll see it regularly.
3. Confide in strangers.
People are truly amazing. The adage of everyone you don’t know the stores behind everyone’s smile or frown particularly rings true. There is something cathartic about talking to strangers. There’s an understood confidentiality clause with strangers. Because of the anonymity factor, it’s easier to be comfortable with someone you may never see again.
Someone you meet by chance can bring you a new perspective on old challenges.
The next time you’re out, try striking up a friendly conversation and share your thoughts. I shared a rather unusual view on life that I read recently with some clients over lunch and the conversation that came from it was so refreshing. They all had their opinions and I totally saw things in a new way.
4. Let your neighbours inspire you with their stories.
When you hear someone’s story of personal triumph or hardship while standing in line at the neighbourhood post office or sitting in the waiting room at your local doctor’s office, you just may be able to relate to this person.
Because you’re neighbours it’s as if you have an instant connection.
Their story could very well be yours, with a few different details.
Seek out their stories and let them inspire you!
5. Watch motivational videos.
Social media offers a plethora of motivational and inspirational videos. Some videos, such as the late Randy Pausch’s poignant “Last Lecture,” has inadvertently inspired millions, even though it was originally intended for a much more personal audience.
People often use social to tell their stories, share successes, and offer advice or encouragement.
When facing a challenge, or if you need some words of wisdom from someone who’s “been there, done that,” you’ll surely find inspiration here.
The next time you feel like you need some extra inspiration, try these sources. You may be surprised at how well they work to get back on track to living the life you desire.
