How To Inspire Yourself

By Dr. Ede Ojo

Discontentment is a pervasive trait these days. I It’s not unusual to hear people make statements like “I believe I deserve better; I know what my mates have,” etc. Interestingly, some of these people do not show enough to convince one that they truly deserve what they want so badly.

What is worrisome is the enormous pressure we put on ourselves to “belong”. People lie, borrow, steal and cheat just to “keep up with the Joneses”. For those who reach their breaking point and develop anxiety symptoms, it becomes a nightmare; usually with frequent visits to hospitals and prayer places.

Sometimes we are so focused on impressing others that we neglect to explore and discover our God-given talents. Every talent must be refined and polished for it to shine brightly enough for others to see. Inspiring ourselves to riches and greatness is more than just wishful thinking.

Decide to inspire yourself today and everyday of your life! Be prepared to do your best and make the necessary sacrifices, no matter the situation. Realize that you may not get all you want, but it is possible to get all you need.

Find the words that inspire you- it might be a Bible verse or a famous quote- and recite it to yourself until it becomes deeply rooted in your mind and transforms your thinking. In times of discouragement it will come in handy.

Find the places that inspire you and go there regularly. It might be a room in your house, a museum, a garden or a church. Go with expectation, as those who expect nothing usually receive nothing.

Find people that inspire you and learn from them. Humble yourself, accept constructive criticism and learn from past mistakes.

Find the actions that inspire you and do them. It might be showing kindness to others, volunteering in church or teaching and inspiring others.

Inspiring yourself can help dismantle the walls between your inner experience and your outer expression. Many people survive by presenting a false self to the rest of the world. When the disparity between the real and false is great, anxiety is bound to ensue. At some point we have to resolve issues and go with the real self otherwise, the falsehood becomes a prison.

As you begin to be inspired, the new you is bound to show, especially if self- expression is done appropriately. Aim to be truthful. Be your own unique peculiar self. Forget what is popular or accepted and do what is right. Try to be courageous; we often turn away from difficult situations because we are afraid to fail. We must realize that to never try is to fail woefully. To be fearless and express truth we have to know we can handle the pain that comes with it. Surprise yourself and create a new idea. Do something new and share it with others.