A reader recently asked me what inspires me make time for creative pursuits. Let me break it down.
I know what I want out of life
I want to live a life of meaning, purpose and significance. I want to bless others with the gifts God has given me. I love this mission statement from John O’Leary’s book, “On Fire” (which I HIGHLY recommend, it would be especially helpful to read right now by the way):
“Because God demands it, my family deserves it, and the world is starving for it”.
He reminds himself of his “why” when he’s feeling uninspired, disillusioned, depressed, despondent, hopeless. This helps him get up and get going.
I know that want to share my time and talent with the world. I don’t have a ton of money but I have some time and I have talents. I can share what I know with others. I can let them know they are not alone. I can make them feel important. I can inspire them that regardless of their circumstances they can live a good life, one filled with the deepest desires of their heart.
What I Can’t Do
I can’t make perfect content that is always exquisitely edited and beautiful but I can offer some words of encouragement. I have to prioritize my needs and my family’s needs and at the end of the day there is probably only an hour for other pursuits. But I can try to block out distractions and use that hour to the fullest and fill it with things that might uplift someone else.
Of course I try to reach for success but I find the most peace when I am showing up, doing my best to live out when God has written on my heart, and share that. I believe success will follow if I am seeking God’s will. I can leave that up to Him.
I love this from the preface of Viktor Frankl’s “Man’s Search For Meaning”:
“Don’t aim at success – the more you aim at it and make a target, the more you are going to miss it. For success, like happiness, cannot be pursued; it must ensue, and it only does so as the unintended side-effect of one’s personal dedication to a cause greater than oneself or as the by-product of one’s surrender to a person other than oneself. Happiness must happen, and the same holds for success: you have to let it happen by not caring about it. I want you to listen to what your conscience commands you to do and go on to carry it out to the best of your knowledge. Then you will live to see that in the long run – in the long run, I say! – success will follow you precisely because you had forgotten to think of it.”
I Want People to Know They Aren’t Alone
I know what it’s like to feel alone, to feel different, to feel misunderstood. I know what it’s like to feel powerless. I also know what it’s like to do things you never thought you could do, and to heal in ways you never thought possible. I believe our greatest strengths can arise out of our greatest weaknesses.
You know whose power is made perfect in weakness? God’s.
I have suffered a lot with feelings of inadequacy and rejection in my life, but because of that I have so much empathy. I want to share that with others. Why? To quote O’Leary again, ” Because God demands it, ,\ my family deserves it, and the world is starved for it. “
How I Stay Inspired
I am an avid reader and viewer of content from inspiring folks on the topics of homemaking, poise, resilience, gratitude, organization, parenting, mental health,
spirituality, relationships, vulnerability and frugal living.
Jennifer Fulwiler , author, comedian, speaker, radio host and mom of 6
I recommend her radio show for a good laugh and hear about pop culture through a Catholic perspective. Her transparency is very refreshing.
Cassandra Aarsen – You-tuber, professional organizer, author, speaker , and just hilarious person
I recommend her channel for organizing advice and also a good laugh. She is super kooky and she’s not trying to impress anyone.
Mel Robbins – speaker, author, and now host of her own show.
I recommend her videos if you are looking for advice on overcoming hesitation and anxiety. She can drop some curse words at time so beware but I love her toughness, she doesn’t sugar coat anything.
Jennifer L. Scott – author, You-tuber, speaker, homeschooler, homemaker
If you need some beauty in your life, look no further. I love watching her videos, always very inspiring and uplifting. She can help you simplify your life and teach you how to live your life in a more poised, elegant and chic manner.
John O’Leary – author, podcast-er, Dad, fire survivor, speaker, and contractor
I recommend his book “On Fire” and his podcast. He is super inspiring and shows how human beings can get through anything. A true example of resilience and the power of community.
Joyce Meyer – author, speaker, abuse survivor
I love watch her videos. Joyce Meyer has a voice like a man and she has an amazing sense of humor. She preaches the gospel and applies it to your everyday life. She is definitely very inspirational to listen to. Her books are great, too.
Laura Doyle – author, relationship expert, podcast-er
Her books and podcast are life-changing! Check it out. She has helped save even the most doomed marriages. She is on a mission to end world divorce. I have applied her advice in my own marriage and it has borne good fruit.
Ruth Soukup – creator of Elite Blog Academy, author, speaker, podcast-er, suicide survivor
Listen to Ruth’s podcast to get inspired about your goals, starting a business or just creating better habits and routines in your life.
Dr. Ray Guarendi – clinical psychologist, radio host, author, speaker, and father to 10 adopted children
On his radio show and podcast he gives great advice on everything from family drama to child-rearing to anxiety. You name it he talks about it.
Julia Kristina- therapist ,you-tuber, online course creator
If you are struggling with depression or anxiety or just want to learn how you can be happier and have better relationships, Julia is your girl! I love her youtube videos and I’ve learned so much from her.
When I “waste time” I usually do not scroll Facebook, I fill myself with inspiring things from the above people. It keeps me inspired and motivated. I will often turn on a podcast/audio-book/YouTube video on in the morning while I’m getting ready or when I’m cooking dinner.
What helps you stay inspired? I’d love to hear!