Right around this time of year I start receiving calls for interviews
from magazines working on spring stories related to sticking with New
Year's resolutions. The editors know that a majority of readers lose
steam within 90 days of setting their goals. The questions always
relate to the same basic theme: How can people stay motivated? Last
night I uncovered a strategy that will help.
A group of friends invited me to see the movie "Dreamgirls," staring
Eddie Murhpy, Jamie Foxx, Beyonce Knowles and Jennifer Hudson (who is
amazing!). During the movie I was so moved, that I found myself
thinking: "I need to do this more often. I need to put myself in
places where I have a chance to experience 'visceral inspiration,' --
a strong emotional reaction that lifts me up, takes me to new places
in my mind, ignites my creativity, and gives me a first-hand
experience of what it's like to channel Divine Creative
Expression." I left the movie thinking about inspiration and the
role it can play in keeping us motivated to achieve our most
heart-felt goals.
I'm sure you've had a similar experience where you find yourself
deeply moved by a theater performance, a great song, or the stunning
beauty of visual art, only to be transported to another place that
connects you to your highest potential. You might see a powerful
character in a movie who encourages you to keep taking the acting
class you finally signed up for last month. Or, you might read the
biography of a great athlete who renews your commitment to keep going
to the gym. It's the energy of inspiration that can be used as
divine fuel that keeps us moving in the right direction.
So, what inspires you to keep pursuing your dreams? Here are some examples:
From an artist: a visit to my favorite museum
From a writer: a long walk on the beach
From a mom: seeing my daughter in a piano recital
From a daily exerciser: listening to a playlist of my favorite music
From a dancer: watching a DVD of my own dance performances
This year, why not make a deliberate attempt to fuel your goals,
resolutions, or dreams with regular inspiration? Make a list of the
things that inspire you and resolve to have one experience every
week. If music, movies, books, or great conversations provide you
with inspiration, you might even make it a daily habit - they're easy
to incorporate into your day. When thinking about inspiration, keep
this formula in mind: Inspiration = Motivation and Motivation =
Realized Dreams. Also, participate in this week's Take Action
Challenge and help others uncover new ideas. Read it below and stay
inspired in 2007! |
