What inspires you? I am inspired by hearing the stories of those that have faced extreme struggles and then rallied to do something great. I am inspired by the people that follow their passions no matter what the critics say. I am inspired by those that stand up for a cause that is bigger than themselves.
It is a good thing to know what inspires you. However, I have found that what motivates you can be different from your inspiration and equally as important. I was watching the replay of the 2006 Ironman in Kona yesterday. The stories and people are amazing. One father was in Kona for the third time with his son who had C.P. John Hoyt, the father, placed his son in a raft that was strapped to John's waist and started the swim towing his son behind. For those not familiar with Ironman, the swim is the start of the race, and it is 2.4 miles in open water! John was quoted as saying, his son was his motivation and was the true athlete. John was just loaning his son his arms and legs for the race. Another participant was a 76 year old nun who was completing her 20th Ironman.
These stories make me want to get moving and do something great. But, have you ever done this and then run out of steam shortly after starting? Yea, me too. Why? Inspiration can set the fire, but without motivation and passion, the fire quickly runs out of fuel and dies. Most people would think finding your passion would be very easy. But, this is something that I have struggled with. I have often thought, "I enjoy .... But is this a passion?" Many people also say, "I would like to do ....... But I do not have the time." We all have obligations, but if we cannot find the time for our passions, stress levels increase, our health is effected, and our relationships suffer.
The most wasted of all days is one without laughter. ---e. e. cummings
