When you’re inspired, you’re unstoppable. Here’s how to bring a spark to your life every day.
1. DARE TO BE GREAT
Whether you need a push to start a new project or the motivation to make a major life change, the first step is to think big. That means getting in touch with how you’d like to see yourself—not the roles your family, friends or job have cast you in. “Sit in quiet contemplation and meditate on the questions Who am I? and Why am I here?” says Michael Bernard Beckwith, director of the Agape International Spiritual Center and author of Life Visioning (Sounds True). The clearer the picture, the clearer the path to achieving it becomes.
2. GIVE YOURSELF A PEP TALK
Arm yourself with positive affirmations. Eat cereal every morning out of a bowl emblazoned with “You Rule” ($23, ournameismud.com/you-rule-bowl-and-spoon.html), or tape a favorite Nikki Giovanni quote or other words of encouragement on your bathroom mirror.
3. OPEN YOUR EYES
A vision board—a collage of colors, drawings, photos and objects—could spur your creativity. Crafting one is easy. To get started, grab a pair of scissors, a glue stick, a poster board and a few back issues of your favorite magazines. Clip out anything that gets your imagination going or just makes you feel good. Paste them on the board in a way that makes sense to you.
4. GO VIRTUAL
Identify people online who are inspiring and follow them. Build a list of friends, coaches, pastors and personalities who always seem to have a word for your spirit. You can start by following Beckwith (@drmichaelbb) on Twitter. If you love vision boards and social networks, Pinterest is a great way to keep all of your favorite quotes and photos online and find out what moves your friends as well. Check these feeds at the start of your day and whenever you need a lift.
