Inspire Yourself
I debated between “Inspire Yourself” and “Motivate Yourself” as titles for this post. I looked them up in the dictionary to find out which word was more appropriate for my purposes. I realized that inspiration is the cause for motivation.
Instead of motivation look for inspiration. Inspiration comes from the same word as spirit. When you are inspired, the spirit moves you.
-Deepak Chopra
Deep stuff. Inspire was definitely my word. What sorts of things do you do to inspire yourself? As a writer, I can tell you that without inspiration, I can’t write. I must have a vision. This is true for both fiction and nonfiction. I don’t mean hallucinogenic-induced visions (although I’m sure those are fantastic), but I have to love an idea, a concept, enough to make it rock. So what do I do for inspiration? I can tell you, but I’d have to kill you. 
Exercise. And I don’t mean butt squeezes at your desk, or sit-ups on your living room floor. I mean kick-your-own-ass, I-can’t-move exercise. There are two basic requirements: 1) You must leave the house, and 2) You must sweat and pant profusely. Oh, it’ll suck. You won’t want to do it. Afterwards, you’ll feel like shit. You won’t feel the positive effects until you’ve showered and eaten something. Give it a minute. I promise you’ll start to feel those creative juices flowing soon. As a matter of fact, the idea for this post came after I had run 3 miles in the cold while pushing a double stroller.
http://zygat3r.deviantart.com
Music. Ah, the power of music! Pull up those tunes that move you, the ones that make you close your eyes and wail along. Play them loud. I play my soul-shattering tunes while I exercise for the ultimate experience. I find myself moving faster, running harder. Shut out the world for a few minutes and delve into your music. If that doesn’t inspire you, you need a new playlist.
Film. Go to the movies. I’m serious! Nothing stimulates those creative juices like an epic movie, à la Avatar or 300. You know, something that’s full of eye candy or thought-provoking themes. See it in 3D. Let it wash over you. And yes, watching it in a dark theater is different than watching it at home while cooking dinner or talking on the phone or paying bills. No multi-tasking. Sorry.
So what are you waiting for? Git! Inspire yourself.
Categorised as: Blog, Personal, Useful Crap, Writing