Inspiration

I have recently admitted to myself that I am the kind of person who is impressionable. I think I take this to be a good thing. After all, as much as I have changed as I grow, I don't believe I've really ever denied who I am fundamentally, and many of the beliefs and values I hold are enduring and steadfast views I've been passionate about in the long term.

But in being impressionable, I both need and benefit from inspiration. A good speech will get my heart pumping, as will the right set of lyrics to a song or the role modeling of someone who I admire or would like to emulate. Sometimes it's corny, and other times it's profound, but I do well to have a rallying cry in the back of my mind as I start my work day or work out.

I've been blessed to be able to share so much of my inspiration already through writing this blog. Day in and day out, whether I am feeling particularly good, bad or indifferent about life, I've been able to sort that out here.

But in realizing the importance of little inspirations in the way I conduct my life, I want to pass some of these little nuggets along, so that they might make others motivated or just happy.

Here are a few of my favorite calls to action from some awesome people:

Nelson Mandela

"I am fundamentally an optimist. Whether that comes from nature or nurture, I cannot say. Part of being optimistic is keeping one's head pointed toward the sun, one's feet moving forward. There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely tested, but I would not and could not give myself up to despair. That way lays defeat and death."

"It always seems impossible until it's done."

"I am not a saint, unless you think of a saint as a sinner who keeps on trying.

"There is no passion to be found playing small - in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living."

"I am the captain of my soul."

"When the water starts boiling it is foolish to turn off the heat."

Jillian Michaels

"A bad day for your ego is a great day for your soul."

"Selfish isn't a dirty word. It means we take care of ourselves and are able to give back."

"Thriving. That's fighting... Surviving is barely getting by."
 
And this kid: