Research Shows Finding Inspiration Makes You Happier
At a certain point in our lives, it becomes easy to get stuck in a rut. Somewhere along the way, we run out of novel experiences and daily inspiration.
The dandelion in the front yard that so enthralled us as a five-year-old now barely gets a passing glance. The phone conversations with our best friends that used to last hours into the night as teenagers (Every. Single. Day) are now short, sharp and functional. The drive to work has not changed in three years, you’ve been married for ten years. In fact, you could walk around your neighbourhood blindfolded and probably get on OK.
Life might be good, but is it inspirational? Are you living your best life? Without new experiences, life can get a bit ho-hum. So, why not do something about it, here are some ideas to help you find inspiration.
Find Inspiration by Doing Something New
- Sign up for a new course, activity or class. A cheap way to learn something new is to create a new podcast list or create a playlist on Ted Talks.
- Break your usual family routine and make it special. You could try making Sunday morning breakfast a special occasion by cooking coloured pancakes (with food dye) with the kids and eating them on a picnic blanket in the backyard. Even better, if you can do an activity near a body water, it’s been proven to make you happier!
Find Inspiration by Going Somewhere New
- Take a different route to work one day. Plan for the extra time, and make sure you turn off your devices and put your book away to look at the new suburbs. Keep an eye out for somewhere new you might try for dinner, and while you’re there, look at the menu to find inspiration for meals you could try cooking at home later.
- Pack a lunch and get on a bus going the opposite direction than you usually take. Get off at the first park you see and have a picnic.
- If you live in a big city, jump on a Hop On Hop Off bus and explore your own city. Make sure you get the headphones and listen to the commentary – you might learn something about your own city!
Find Inspiration by Meeting Someone New
- Join a local group. You could try volunteering, joining a walking group or a book club.
- If you’re a bit shy, or need to engage on your time, try joining an online community or group. Go to Twitter, Facebook, or Google+ and search for community groups that might interest you. For big ideas and world-changing concepts, you could join the World Economic Forum Book Club.
PS. In no way do I endorse walking around your neighbourhood blindfolded. That would be silly.
Related content: Read Moving On article Awe-inspiring activities to bring wonder to your life, listen to our Podcast: Bringing Awe and Inspiration into Your Life (E4)
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