In many aspects of life, inspiration is what lights the first flame. It is often not grand events or lofty speeches that set us on the path towards realising our ambitions, but rather, a quiet stirring within the heart.
Sharing our philosophies, principles, ideals, concepts, beliefs, products, and services is more than a transaction; it is a gift. When we offer these things honestly and earnestly, we do far more than fill a need — we inspire. And that inspiration, once kindled, has a way of extending far beyond ourselves. It spreads, lifting others to believe that they, too, can strive, achieve, and ultimately fulfil their ambitions.
The thought that we can, should, and need to do better is not a criticism of the present — it is an acknowledgement of the great and noble potential that lies within each of us. In the finest traditions, inspiration comes not from the noise and glitter of the outside world, but from a quiet and determined self-belief. True inspiration — the kind that sustains and strengthens — is born from within. It is a private conversation between you and your conscience, and it is all the more potent for it.
It is wise to resist the temptation to lean too heavily on prompts, props and cues. In truth, more than 80% of our daily communication is with ourselves. And sadly, too much of that inner dialogue tends towards the negative — the quiet undercutting of our spirit.
It need not be so.
Instead, we must consciously choose to remediate our thoughts, dedicate ourselves to better habits of mind, educate our hearts with wisdom and hope, and articulate to ourselves the quiet truth that we are capable of more.
When you inspire yourself, without needing to be pushed, pulled, or praised by the world around you, you will find a satisfaction and strength that no one can take away from you. Inspiration is not rare. It is not the preserve of the famous or the fortunate. It is, and always has been, a simple choice available to every one of us — and it begins today, within.
By Barry Urquhart
BIO:
Barry Urquhart is a distinguished market research and strategic planning consultant. He is widely respected as a keynote speaker at leading conferences across Australasia and the acclaimed author of Serves You Right! And Service Please!, the region’s two best-selling books on customer service excellence.
A trusted voice in business strategy, Barry frequently leads impactful business development workshops, guiding organisations towards sustainable growth and service leadership.
Get in Touch with Barry: Email: [email protected], Mobile: +61 041 983 5555.
