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Need a Little Inspiration?

By Beverly Mahone


Life can be hard. Sometimes it seems like the older we get, the more stressful things become. We’re taking care of our children, our aging parents and trying to keep our head above water financially. Does that sound like you? This is the time when we need a change of pace or a little pick-me-up to rejuvenate our spirits. Everyone needs some inspiration every now and then. Each person will find inspiration in different places and by doing different things.

If you feel in need of a little inspiration, take time to consider what things you could do to add a little spice to your life. Is there an old hobby or pastime you love but haven't had time to do in years? If so, consider picking that hobby back up and you'll be surprised at the inspiration that comes with it.

There are many ways to find inspiration, but one of the best can be to take a vacation. Getting away from the day to day challenges of life can be all it takes to be refreshed and filled with new perspective. That is what inspiration does for us - it fills us with a new outlook on life that makes things seem more bearable. What kind of vacation sounds ideal to you right now? If you live in the country then perhaps a week in a busy city might be just the inspiration you need. City dwellers might prefer a retreat to somewhere with peace and quiet. Choose whatever kind of vacation sounds best and start planning. Inspiration will follow as soon as you get to your destination.

If, however, taking a week or two off for a vacation is not possible for you right now, consider a smaller activity or event that might fill you with fresh inspiration. Consider taking an art class or signing up for a membership at a local health club. Get a therapeutic massage or get outside for a long hike in the woods. The bottom line is doing something that sounds both relaxing and fun to you. You will never find inspiration in doing things you cannot stand.

Even picking up a new pleasure book like, Whatever! A Baby Boomer’s Journey Into Middle Age J , or attempting to cook an extravagant meal can bring people inspiration enough to keep on living. Make a list of all of the goals you have for your life, small and large, and begin to accomplish them. Find inspiration in getting outside of your comfort zone and trying new things. Another way that many people discover inspiration is by taking time and energy to help others. Sometimes being self- focused is the very thing that kills peoples' inspiration. Taking an afternoon to volunteer at a local non-profit agency or helping out your child's school can be easy ways to begin to think outside of yourself. It is amazing what thinking of others before yourself will give you inspiration to do.


I, personally, find inspiration and motivation in God’s Word. It reminds me that man didn’t give me joy and man can’t take it away so when I’m feeling low I go to the ONLY SOURCE that I know can comfort me.


There are countless ways to find inspiration. Get creative and try something new today. Your health, livelihood, and relationships will be stronger if you are living a life filled with inspiration and challenging new things.
 


Beverly Mahone is an author and motivational speaker who writes about issues affecting baby boomer women in her book Whatever! A Baby Boomer’s Journey Into Middle Age. For more information and other articles written by Ms. Mahone, visit her website at:  www.talk2bev.com
Copyright © 2007 by Beverly Mahone
 

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