This post was updated May 2025
She believed she could, so she did – R.S. Grey
I just keep coming back to this quote. It resonates deeply—from my personal life, especially as I entered the final trimester of my first pregnancy, to my professional life as I continue to grow as a coach and talk with others about their hopes and dreams.
Having written recently about TED Talks, nature, and careers/recruitment fairs, I wanted to share a few more ways you might find inspiration—ways that have spoken to me, especially lately. I was reminded of this while reading this post by Tiny Buddha.
Finding inspiration in something you’ve always wanted to do
There’s something powerful about reconnecting with long-held desires—learning a new skill, reigniting an old passion, or passing your knowledge on to someone else.
Taking that first step can feel like the hardest part. Giving yourself permission to pause and consider the possibilities is a gift.
Find a method that works for you. I’m a visual person, so I love using Pinterest to dream, plan, and gather ideas for both new and long-standing projects.
Finding inspiration in other people
I draw strength from others. It gives me the energy to offer that same strength to people who might need it more. I’m regularly inspired by people in my life—and those I’ll never meet:
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My kids (and my niece and nephew), who try new things with no fear and complete trust in those around them
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My best friends, who continuously achieve incredible things, despite fear and self-doubt
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A colleague who stays unfailingly positive, no matter what life throws her way, because she believes “life happens” and that it’s no good dwelling on everything that could go wrong
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Artists, actors, musicians, and poets who pour themselves into their work
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Strangers who share their stories and pass on wisdom, passion, and knowledge
Finding inspiration in yourself
The world is a noisy place, and we all need space to reconnect with ourselves. I began practising mindfulness meditation a few years ago when I was craving stillness. Now, I try to take just 15 minutes each day to reflect and refocus.
While I love writing, I’ve never been great at journaling regularly, so I’ve found more free-flowing, creative ways to express myself. Find what works for you.
If you struggle to see yourself in a positive light or find inspiration within, ask others to reflect it back to you. Just last week, I asked five people I know well to answer a few simple questions:
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What do you think is my greatest strength?
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What’s one thing I could change about myself?
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What do you value most about me?
The responses were honest, warm, and soul-soothing.
Wherever you are on your journey, inspiration is always within reach—sometimes in others, sometimes in dreams, and often, within yourself.
