INSPIRATION

Inspiration is often defined as an experience where a situation, event, or person sparks new possibilities, capabilities and action.

In the book Dare to Inspire, the authors define inspiration as “the initial moment of inspiration – the spark- at the intersection of possibility and invincibility.”

“Possibility expands the boundary of what could be, it extends beyond our normal limits of what is possible or current conceptions of what may “work.” Possibility is firmly rooted in hope—it introduces new ways of thinking about things and a new capacity to visualize, create, analyze, and foresee. “

“Invincibility is the confident energy that complements possibility in the spark of inspiration and translates it into action. Some people may hear the word invincibility as an abandonment of all common sense and regard for safety. Instead, within the experience of inspiration, invincibility operates as a heightened confidence and courage that leads to taking action toward a goal in ways that are rational but bold.”

The key to inspiration is the ability to sustain the “inspiration”. The authors believe that inspiration can be actively sought after and sustained over time. It doesn’t have to be a short lived experience.

Reflecting on my own situation, my inspiration comes from several sources and my sustainability comes from continuously perusing those sources. One of my main sources is reading books about what is possible and what new things are being developed. I believe that I can learn from others and their successes, and the methods they used to achieve those results are very inspirational.

Think about a time when you were inspired. What was it that inspired you? What did it feel like? What happened? What were you inspired to do? Were you able to make it last?

I mentioned that good books inspire me, thus I occasionally share a very short quote from a book and then recommend that you read it. Dare to Inspire is such a book.