I think if you were ask almost anyone they like to have a purpose and seek out purpose, life's purpose. Most of us want to do something meaningful with our lives. Be known for a special talent or the way we interact and make people feel, our relationships or our skills. We want to inspire others. We feel special when someone looks up to us, or shares our views. We are encouraged by those around us when we feel supported and admired.
Some people may not seek this out intentionally. Some people may go through very hard time in order to have the success they do now. They may be an inspiration to you, but they may not feeling inspiring themselves.
I've recently been inspired by a lot like minded strangers on Instagram, in Facebook groups, and by other bloggers or authors. I would not have thought that so much meaning would come from these sources, but I'm glad it has. The world is such a large place but because we can be so connected with people we can be inspired and inspire others.
In different areas of my life and at different times I've been told that I've inspired other people. It wasn't necessarily my intention. I'm just trying to live the best I can under the grace of God. When I've been told this, I've often stopped to wonder - "how did I inspire you anyways?" "how was I inspirational" I'll share with you what my thought are on this and what I've found myself.
So how do you become inspiring?
Well, first, you need to be willing to share. You need to share who you are. Where you've been? The struggles you have gone through. What success you have had. What goals or next steps you have. What makes you different? What makes you just like everyone else? - the real human side. If you aren't willing to share who you are, chances are you won't be much of an inspiration either. You need self-confidence, or to start, you just need try and put yourself out there. Self-confidence will come especially when you find some like-minded people. Since the world is so big and so connected, it's likely you will find someone else you can relate to. Be honest. You may not inspire everyone - but I'm sure you'll inspire someone if you're willing to share who you really are.
You need to also remember that we all have different journeys. We may be in different life stages or places. We have different goals. We need to show each other grace and kindness. We need to take interest in each other's gifts, talents, and passions. We need to be encouraging. I love being able to peak into someone else's life - get to know them and appreciate everything they are even if it’s not something I want for my life. You can be inspired by someone even if you have different life goals. Kindness and encouragement goes a long way in inspiring others.
So the short list is this:
Be yourself and share who you are with others.
Be kind and encouraging to others.
Those two things will get you a long way.
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