Is very common to hear the word inspiration used amongst artists of all kinds of professions. When they speak about their work and the process of creation, their enjoyment shines through. This is not by coincidence; when inspiration knocks on our door, it uplifts our emotions, which benefit our overall well-being. So, why aren’t we talking more about it in our day-to-day conversations?

Perhaps there is a misconception on what inspiration looks and feels like, hence not acknowledging it. Some may feel that is an ability reserved for a group of people; however, you’ll find out that everyone can access it with the right mindset…just keep  reading.

The Oxford dictionary defines inspiration as “the process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially to do something creative”. This stimulation can come as a new idea, a vision, or clarity regarding a topic. It is usually accompanied by a boost of energy that is felt emotionally (i.e., happiness) and in the body (i.e., increased heartbeat).

According to Psychologists Todd M. Thrash and Andrew J. Elliot, inspiration possesses three core aspects: evocation, transcendence, and approach motivation. Evocation refers to spontaneity, meaning that it comes without intention. Transcendence opens the door to go beyond our self-serve concerns and limitations. It brings forward clarity or awareness of new possibilities. Finally, approach motivation is when the person takes action to communicate and act on the new idea.

Additionally, through their “Inspiration Scale”, Trash and Elliot noted that one trait of inspired people is their openness to new experiences. So much so that their openness often came before the inspiration. This becomes relevant, as our daily routines and high levels of stress or anxiety can often block our receptiveness to new possibilities.

Sources of Inspiration

While inspiration arrives spontaneously, certain activities can increase the probabilities to open up to new ideas hence feeling inspired. Here are some of my favorites:

Quotes
For me, these short phrases capture and communicate insights from people that been in our shoes before. Their conclusion can act as a catalyst for us to connect with a deeper part of ourselves that has the answer or strength that we are looking for. There are quotes for so many things that it will leave you in awe. Best of all they are easy to find.

Biographies
When life seems to be conspiring against us, a quick reminder that everyone goes through hard times can be enough to open our point of view to see things differently. Biographies are a great way to achieve just that. For example, when we see prosperous people, we may tend to assume that everything has come easy for them and luck has been on their side. However, when we look deeper, we often find out the amount of energy and effort that has been dedicated up to that point. Just like quotes, biographies are easy to find on the internet. I also invite you to consider talking with people you admire that are close to you; their answers may catch you by surprise.

Connect with Nature
Throughout time, many artists have found their muse in nature. Its spontaneity, beauty, uniqueness, and harmony transpires when we pay attention. It can be nourishing, relaxing, and show you something new every time you pass it. Nature is constantly changing, hence is in a continuous process of reinvention. Take a few
minutes as often as you can to see a sunrise, a sunset, walk in a park, go to the beach, do a picnic outdoors, etc. Then pay attention to how you feel afterward.

Learn something New                                                

Since one of the characteristics of people who feel inspired is being open to new experiences. You are doing just that when you decide to learn something new. It doesn’t have to be anything complex, just something that will bring you joy or that you’ve wanted to do for a while.

The next time you get an idea that makes you feel incredibly awesome, give yourself the chance to try it out. Don’t let the expectation of doing things “perfect” right from the beginning become an obstacle to cross the bridge between thinking and doing. Let go and be curious about what you find; at minimum, you will feel revitalized.