7 Steps to Inspiration

Some look to be inspired, others look to inspire.

But how many people live inspired? If so many people want to be inspired, why do so many of us fail to feel it? Live it?

Although each of us become inspired by a various array of stimuli, perhaps there are common denominators that equally have the desired effect. For argument sake, let us try to break down the inspiration process into chronological stages:

1. Presentation: While some enjoy a vibrant, animated delivery of inspiration, some appreciate a more calm, gradual style. However, the person who awaits inspiration (or perhaps does not even see it coming) must be "grabbed," entranced by the presenter.

2. Content: The material being presented must be coherent, realistic and tangible. Abstract usually does not work, rather it must be brought to life through parables or modern day examples.

3. Authentic: The presenter must appear to his/her listener as someone who authentically cares about the material. The listener must sense that the passion is genuine and not manufactured.

4. Connection: The presenter and listener must have built a relationship earlier or forged a connection through some form of speech, motion or gesture. There must be a pull in addition to the material itself.

5. Anticipation: While the information is being delivered with poise and excitement, there must be an anticipated, overarching goal that the listener may now potentially achieve through the inspiration. This goal must be understood throughout, yet may not require actually verbalization.

6. Immediate: The presenter must offer or facilitate the formation of immediate actions or thoughts that the listener can participate in that will assist towards the overarching goal. These must be realistic steps the listener can surely succeed in.

7. Sustainability: In closing, the presenter must provide ongoing support, whether through himself, others or related and accessible material. For the listener to accomplish his long-term goal, the inspiration cannot wither and die. It must sustained.

These are not the 7 Habits of Highly Inspired People, nor have I conducted a barrage of sophisticated, clinical tests. Yet, you can certainly try them out and let me know how it went!