Today, I invite you to take a deep breath and ask yourself a powerful question: What lifts me up? In a world that often feels chaotic, uncertain, and overwhelming, the one thing that consistently brings clarity, direction, and transformation is inspiration. It’s more than just a feel-good word. It’s fuel. It’s medicine. It’s a necessity for a thriving life.
The Science of Daily Motivation
In a 2020 survey conducted by The American Institute of Stress, 77% of people reported experiencing physical symptoms caused by stress, and 73% said stress impacted their mental health. Meanwhile, individuals who reported practicing daily motivation—whether through inspirational videos, books, meditation, or affirmations, saw a 23% increase in productivity, according to a Harvard Business Review study.
Another study published in Psychology Today showed that people who intentionally engaged in inspirational content each morning were 43% more likely to achieve their daily goals and reported higher overall well-being. The data is clear: when you lack inspiration, you drift. When you are fueled by it, you rise.
Inspiration gives us the emotional lift to stay disciplined, to believe in ourselves when it’s hard, and to create momentum when motivation fades. Without it, we’re more likely to experience burnout, anxiety, and depression. With it, we’re more likely to create change, inspire others, and show up as our best selves.
Inspiration as a Healing Force
When it comes to healing, inspiration becomes more than helpful—it becomes vital. Consider the case of Anita Moorjani, who was diagnosed with terminal cancer and fell into a coma. In her book Dying to Be Me, she details how a near-death experience filled her with divine love and inspiration to live. When she awoke, her tumors began to shrink at an unprecedented rate, and she made a full recovery.
Another example is Norman Cousins, who famously used laughter and inspirational films as part of his recovery from a life-threatening illness. His healing was documented in The New England Journal of Medicine, revealing how belief and emotional health can directly influence physical health.
Faith, hope, and daily spiritual inspiration have been shown to boost immune response, decrease inflammation, and increase resilience, proving that inspiration isn’t just emotional, it’s physiological.
The Greats Who Were Lifted Higher
History is filled with athletes, creators, and leaders who used inspiration to surpass limitations. Michael Jordan was cut from his high school basketball team, but he turned that failure into fuel. He visualized greatness, replayed affirmations, and practiced relentlessly, becoming a six-time NBA champion and one of the greatest athletes of all time.
Oprah Winfrey, raised in poverty and trauma, credits daily inspiration, journaling, and faith as her north star. Her commitment to staying inspired helped her become a billionaire media mogul and global force for good.
Inspiration is the spark behind revolutions, scientific breakthroughs, and world records. It’s not reserved for the elite—it’s available to everyone who chooses to seek it.
A Universal Language Across Time and Cultures
From the parables of Jesus to the fables of Aesop, from Native American storytelling to Buddhist koans, every culture on Earth has used stories and spiritual wisdom to lift the hearts and minds of its people.
In Judaism, the story of David and Goliath teaches courage against overwhelming odds. In Hinduism, the Bhagavad Gita is a poetic guide to spiritual resilience and righteous action. In African and Indigenous traditions, oral storytelling has passed down generations of teachings meant to inspire harmony, purpose, and strength.
This tells us something profound: Inspiration is not optional, it’s sacred.
Quick Start Guide: 5 Simple Ways to Elevate Your Life Today
1. Start Your Day with Purpose
Begin your morning with an inspiring quote, prayer, or 3 minutes of gratitude. Set an intention for how you want to feel today.
2. Move Your Body, Move Your Spirit
Take a walk while listening to uplifting music or a podcast that fires you up. Physical movement clears stagnation and creates space for inspiration.
3. Read or Watch One Inspirational Story
Whether it’s a TED Talk, a biography, or a spiritual text spend 10 minutes each day soaking in the wisdom of others who’ve walked powerful paths.
4. Create a “Victory Log”
Write down three things you’ve overcome or done well recently. Reminding yourself of your strength builds momentum and confidence.
5. Be the Inspiration
Call a friend and lift them up. Share something that inspired you. When you shine your light, it not only brightens their path—it illuminates yours too.
Inspiration isn’t a luxury, it’s a lifeline. It reminds you of who you are, what you’re capable of, and why you must keep going. So today, ask yourself not what weighs me down, but what lifts me up?
And then rise.
Remember, extraordinary is only a thought away.
Brett Baughman
