My Inspiration
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Blog-tember Day 11: How do you stay inspired? Who inspires you the most?
When I hear the word inspiration, I immediately hear Chicago's "You're the Inspiration" in my head. Anyone else? I digress...These days, I need not look far to find inspiration. It seems as though everywhere I look, there are pretty words penned on pretty papers. There are paintings and lyrics and words, and I am overwhelmed. Writing has always been an outlet for me. I have always loved to put a pen to paper and just go. Pinterest and Instagram keep me inspired in those little ways- by offering little bits of pretty and happy in my day as I peruse my feed.
But what inspires me most- with regard to the things that matter- are other people. Some people I have never met inspire me, while others who inspire me are close friends. Yesterday, I took a Myers-Briggs personality test. I found out that I am an ENFJ. According to these test results, the following sums up my personality:
ENFJs are natural-born leaders, full of passion and charisma. Forming around two percent of the population, they are oftentimes our politicians, our coaches and our teachers, reaching out and inspiring others to achieve and to do good in the world. With a natural confidence that begets influence, ENFJs take a great deal of pride and joy in guiding others to work together to improve themselves and their community.
This summary left me wondering-if I'm among the supposed 2% of people who are pushing others to be the best they can be, then who do I look to? Another ENFJ, I guess. No, but seriously, I began to reflect on the people in my life who inspire me. The people who push me to be more than I think I am and encourage me to take changes. They breathe life into dreams that I think sound foolish. They give value to my words and feelings. They listen and push me to love Jesus more. And I am so grateful for these people- my best friends, mentors, and my mama and papa.
But then there are those whom I have never met who inspire me. These people inspire me with their words, their actions and their stories. I look to pastors, writers, artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs and am marveled at their humility, creativity, and boldness. When I see others make things happen and walk in boldness, I am inspired to pay it forward, and it is my prayer that with God's grace I do the same for others.