One of the most heartwarming compliments we can receive is—“Thanks! You’ve really inspired me.” Perhaps to take decisive action, to rethink work life direction or to keep moving ahead on important goals. The gift of inspiration—it energizes and motivates us. We seem to cheer up when we have a fresh outlook and a new perspective.

Do you need encouragement and creative ideas in your work search now? Whether you’re seeking a new job, making a career change or re-entering the workplace, it’s easy to get sidetracked during the work life transition. It’s amazing how a kind word or helpful suggestion can ease you back on the road. You feel inspired to get underway again.

Where does inspiration come from? Often where and when you least expect it.

The secret—create the right environment where inspiration is most likely to find you. Then act on it.

1.   Are you receptive to new ideas and resources, regardless of the source?

Listen actively—always—to both your inner voice and to outside information resources.

What inspires you? It may be an engaging conversation with friends or colleagues. You may stumble across something intriguing in your reading. Perhaps you love to listen to music, watch movies, enjoy physical activities, and get out in nature, tend a garden. A friend of mine loves knitting and the space it clears for her creative thinking.

You may be moved when you hear someone’s success story, how they were able to courageously overcome their adversities. Perhaps an inspiring thought comes to mind when you’re doing nothing in particular.

2.   Are you available and engaged?

Do you regularly meet with people—through professional associations, networking groups, informal gatherings?

Do you have good one-to-one conversations with people that make you think? Your own efforts will be activated and revitalized when you join in the flow of information and ideas.

3.   Are you prepared?

Do you maintain your readiness? Are you working your action plan, acquiring new skills, updating your knowledge in your industry’s content areas?

It was Albert Szent-Gyorgyi, a US (Hungarian-born) biochemist who wisely said, “A discovery is said to be an accident meeting a prepared mind.”

Listen to your inner voice, as well as to friends and trusted colleagues. Tap outside information resources. You’ll find the inspiration that energizes you, lifts your spirits and strengthens your resolve.

Inspiration does exist, but it must find you working.-Pablo Picasso, Spanish Cubist painter

Today’s question

What most inspires you when you most need motivation and a fresh perspective?