We often think inspiration is something external. A passing feeling, a mood, a spark we catch from someone else’s success or creativity. But when you slow down and look more closely, inspiration is not random at all. It is information.
The people, brands, and voices you admire are mirrors. They reflect qualities you value, energy you recognize, and ways of showing up in the world that resonate with something inside you. That is why knowing who inspires you, and more importantly why, is a powerful act of self-awareness.
This is the foundation of what I call the Muses exercise.
The Muses Exercise
Start by identifying at least five people, brands, or platforms that you admire. These can be individuals, companies, creatives, or organizations. They do not need to be in your industry. What matters is how they make you feel and what draws you to them.
For each muse, ask yourself why. Such as…
Is it their clarity of message?
Their courage?
Their consistency?
Their style?
Their impact?
Their integrity?
The answers reveal patterns. And patterns point to purpose.
What Your Muses Reveal About You
Inspiration often highlights qualities we are ready to embody more fully ourselves.
For example:
- Queen Elizabeth II may reflect a desire to be seen as steady, composed, reliable, diplomatic, and grounded in leadership.
- Jane Goodall often resonates with those who feel called to advocacy, stewardship of the planet, and leading by example through lived values.
- Oprah Winfrey can signal a longing to create meaningful conversations, hold space for others, and influence culture through truth and compassion.
- Michelle Obama may reflect values of grace, strength, authenticity, and purpose-driven leadership.
- Malala Yousafzai often inspires those who feel called to courage, education, and using their voice for change.
Why This Matters on Your Journey
When you feel stuck, misaligned, or unsure of your next step, your muses act as guideposts. They point you back to what matters to you, not what you think should matter.
Your inspiration is not asking you to copy someone else’s path. It is inviting you to understand your own values, desires, and calling more clearly.
That clarity makes alignment easier. Decisions feel cleaner. Energy returns.
Journal Prompts
Use these prompts to turn inspiration into insight:
| 1. Who are five people, brands, or voices that consistently inspire me? 2. What specific qualities or values do I admire in each one? 3. What do these choices reveal about what I care about most right now? 4. Where am I already expressing these qualities in my own life? 5. Where am I holding back from embodying them more fully? 6. If my life reflected these values more clearly, what would change? |
Your muses are signals. When you learn to listen to them, you learn more about yourself and what your heart and soul desires.
