Tragedy and Pain:
One of the overall places that people get their inspiration is from their experiences. I saw responses about using tragedy and pain (whether it is their own or things they've seen) to motivate and inspire themselves or others. I think this is awesome. People who have been through major trauma that come out the other side stronger are so inspiring to me. Along with this I saw people that gathered inspiration from their heart and life experiences whether they are from joy, pain, success, hardship, or adventure.
God and the Bible:
There was a strong response from people who not only draw from their life experiences but also trust in God to help inspire and lead them where they want or need to go. Taking a moment to listen to what God has to say can open up doors and opportunities for people that belief.
There are people that say that music can move the soul. I find this is one of my go-tos when I need background noise. I put on some music that will set the mood for whatever I'm looking to write. My current favorite background music is Misty Mountain Cold (The Hobbit) and any of the Epic Music Mixes on YouTube. What kind of music do you like to listen to?
Fantasy:
Believe it or not there are people out there that find inspiration in the supernatural. One of my friends even said hey, when I need inspiration I would think "What would Dean Do?". Inspiration can show up in interesting places. I read the first Wayward Pines novel and found that a whole series of ideas flood through my brain. Comic books, TV, books, and movies can all be used to draw in ideas and inspiration for various things throughout your life.
Family:
Family was a huge response and one I love to hear about! My family is a huge part of my life and my inspiration. I get ideas and life skills from them, as well as life skills from where I make mistakes (which never happens… I mean…). Children can be a great source of motivation and inspiration. They teach us things we never expected to learn. Their pure sense of innocence and joy in the smallest things can draw out amazement and wonder in adults.
I had one response that I couldn't have said any better and would like to share: "My children, it never stops amazing me how honest and carefree they are, so innocent but if we could only emulate childhood in so many ways the smallest things make them so happy. They are still in awe of the world and ask so many questions. They give without stopping to think what they might get back and live in the moment. They love without fear and play without being self conscious." Thank you Mike for you those wonderful words of inspiration!
Time and People:
The last category I found responses lighting up my computer was to just step back and take some space. A little distraction can led to something new and exciting. There is also something about taking the time to do some people watching to find inspiration. I have spent time just sitting back and looking around thinking, what are these people doing? This is especially helpful when you are looking for inspiration and not finding it. Take a step back, explore, people watch, or just take a quiet moment for reflection.
I would have to tie that all together and say that my personal inspiration comes from several different places. I definitely pull from life experiences and my family. Let's face it, when you have a busy toddler, there's inspiration going on all the time. I took the time to just sit and watch her the other day and I was amazed at what I saw. The joy that lit up her face at just a simple sticker was just awesome. When she learned to speak and ran around calling out "I love you" I couldn't help but think how innocence children are and how freely they give their love. Not only does my own child inspire me, but I love to watch the kids in my classroom. As a teacher, there is nothing more inspirational than seeing that light bulb moment when children get something new, or when they get excited over a topic. The other place I drew inspiration is from music and literature. Let's face it, I love to read and write. Ideas fill my brain, sometimes to the point of overflowing so I can't sleep. I love books, movies, and music.
Video:
I found the video below that I also wanted to share that does a great job of inspiring and pumping you up! It inspired me to go out and find more inspirational ideas!
Do you find inspire somewhere I haven't mentioned? Feel free to leave me a comment below! Thank you for reading and sharing all these wonderful ideas.