How do you stay inspired? When external circumstances and situations seem bleak and your patience is wearing thin, what keeps you going? How do you keep your dreams and goals alive in the midst of difficult times?
I am constantly challenged in this area of staying inspired when things get a little challenging. Patience is definitely not one of my strong points. So when things aren’t moving as fast as I’d like, it’s easy for me to get frustrated and discouraged. There were times in my life when I would completely veer off course, take myself out of focus, because I felt blindsided by external circumstances that had me frustrated and stressed. Today, I am doing much better in managing my frustrations. I am learning that things ARE progressing and moving in my life, despite being on their own schedule. The key for me has been to enjoy the process. (Advice I constantly get from one of my sisters!) I shouldn’t get so consumed with future goals that I lose sight of the present. I must give myself time and permission to enjoy the present and be grateful for everything I have today.
I am learning to keep my dreams in sight and in mind every day, every minute. When doubt arises, I think about how I will feel when I look back and see the growth I have experienced. I dream of the conversations I will have with my husband as we examine our lives. We will look back and say: “Wow! We did it!” Look how far we’ve come! We will embrace each other and be grateful for our strength and stamina throughout our journey. That inspires me! When I hear my children refer to the goals I have expressed with faith, enthusiasm, and anticipation, I am inspired! When I receive the faith that my children exhibit, my dreams ARE possible.
When you hunger for your heart’s desires, when you stop at nothing to chase your dreams, inspiration will come easily. You will protect your dreams by taking care of them. You will filter out the things that appear in your life to hinder or block your dreams. You will remind yourself that you are living a life in pursuit of your goals, and that will inspire you. Many people cannot make that claim. So when things around you start to get overwhelming and you feel like giving up, don’t! The moment you decide to throw in the towel could be the moment when greatness is just on the other side of your obstacle.
So stay inspired! Find ways to keep your mind, body, and soul enriched so that you can always find inspiration in your life no matter what the circumstances. Find ways to be in the moment or NOW of your life, so you can be inspired to continue YOUR journey to greatness.
(c) 2008 Gwen Thibeaux – All rights reserved.