Livin' Lean Topic Tuesday: YOU Are an Inspiration

I find great inspiration others. These people are not all professional athletes, fit Hollywood stars, famous chefs or successful entrepreneurs. Although their stories can light a temporary spark of motivation within me, the ones that truly inspire me, offer direction and drive my determination to be my very best, are the people right around me. They are my family, my friends and especially my little Kimberlyn.

There is something I find quite fascinating about this. I would bet that if you were to ask these people if they considered themselves to be "an inspiration to others", they would probably say "no", "well, maybe", or at least have to think about it. It isn't because they aren't exceptional people, because they absolutely are. It is my belief that we simply aren't aware of the influence and affect we have on those around us. Our actions and words, direct and indirect, big and small, have an inevitable affect on the people in our lives.

I've learned that being aware of this is important; even more so since becoming a mother. As we strive to live better lives and to be better people, we are inspiring others to do the same. Think of this in a sense that we are in this together. Each of us, at different moments in our lives, are shining examples of what is possible, what is attainable and what can be. We remind each other of the strength that lives within all of us. When you look for inspiration in others, know that someone is looking to find inspiration in you. You are an inspiration.

Think about the things you do each day.

You go outside for a run. To the people driving by, you are an inspiration.

Bringing a healthy lunch to work. To the people who eat with you, you are an inspiration.

Doing push-ups & crunches in the living room.To your children, you are an inspiration.

Working, keeping a clean house & raising a family. To all of us, you are an inspiration.

Keeping a garden full of fresh veggies & herbs. To me, you are an inspiration.

Changing careers & following your true passion. To those wanting to do the same, you are an inspiration.

Smiling, even when life has dished out tough times. To those around you, you are an inspiration.


I could go on and on. The point is that each of us holds something to be admired; something that inspires. Sometimes they are the little things that we don't even think that inspire. As you go through your day, take pride in what you do, listen to the words you say and know that YOU are an inspiration to someone in your life. Yes, inspiration is all around us, but it lives within us too.

The purpose of our lives is to give birth to the best which is within us. ~ Marianne Williamson

When we do this, when we "give birth to the best which is within us", that is what truly inspires others. "Thank you" to the people in my life who have shown me their best.