Lately, I’ve been thinking deeply about what truly matters in my life. Instead of scattering my energy across a little of this and a little of that, I want to focus, really focus, on finding inspiration in the things that bring me joy and fulfillment. This isn’t just a passing thought; it’s a personal challenge I’m excited to embrace. When I concentrate on what matters most, a sense of peace wraps itself around me like a comforting embrace. I feel grounded, centered, and present.

As I sit at my desk, gazing out at a serene Lake Michigan from the 71st floor of my condo in the sky, I realize that dedicating myself to a few long-term goals will serve as yet another guiding star in my life. Of course, staying on track is no small feat for someone like me– an eternal enthusiast, easily captivated by life’s many wonders! My mind flits to Van Gogh’s Starry Night (oh, how I love Van Gogh!), and suddenly, I catch myself drifting.

But here’s what I know: Enthusiasm is the heartbeat of motivation. Without it, life feels dull, directionless. Enthusiasm isn’t reserved for grand achievements, but rather it’s about finding inspiration in the everyday. I used to feel this spark effortlessly, but lately, it flickers only in fleeting moments. The opposite of enthusiasm is apathy, and I recognize that feeling all too well. It’s a heaviness, a lack of energy, both physically and emotionally.

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Finding Inspiration in a World That Feels Different

When I step outside, I can’t help but notice how much the world around me has changed. But beyond the shifting cityscape and quieted streets, it’s the changes within my own life that weigh the heaviest.

Once, I moved through my days with effortless enthusiasm. I felt a deep connection to my family, my friendships, and my passions. But life, as it does, has tested me. The estrangement from my daughter, a pain too deep to fully articulate, has left an ache in my heart that no amount of time seems to ease. The loss of what once was, the longing for what could be, and the silence where laughter used to reside… it all lingers.

At home, I pour my love and energy into caring for my Ultimate Concierge. It is a privilege, yes, but also a weight. Watching the man I adore grow older, seeing his needs change, adjusting my life to ensure his comfort and happiness, it requires strength. Some days, I feel that strength radiate from within me. Other days, I struggle to find it.

These personal storms, paired with a world that feels unrecognizable, have tested my spirit. My once-light steps feel heavier. Cherished handbags, once symbols of confidence and joy, sit untouched on their shelves. My once-boundless energy feels more fragile, more easily depleted.

And yet, deep inside me, there is still a flicker of the woman I have always been. I refuse to let the weight of loss, change, and uncertainty dull my enthusiasm for life. I will not become a shadow of my former self. Instead, I will find new ways to shine.

Reclaiming Our Natural Enthusiasm

It’s too easy to slip into a state of resignation, to let the outside world dictate our inner world. But I refuse and you should refuse, too.

Because here’s the truth: No one is going to hand us back our enthusiasm. No one is going to place joy at our feet, neatly wrapped with a bow. We must be the ones to claim it. To fight for it and nurture it like a precious flame that the winds of life keep trying to extinguish.

As I continue my walk, I remind myself that enthusiasm isn’t something that just happens, it’s something we choose. We are living in a time of our life that challenges our joy, that tests our resilience. But that only means we must work harder to reclaim it. And we will reclaim it!

I dream of leading a grandmother’s march– women over 50, 60, 70, and beyond, walking together across the country, declaring, Enough! Enough of the silence, feeling invisible or allowing the world to dull our shine.

Bringing Back the Light

Today is Friday, my day. No work, just time for me. I’m meeting a dear friend for lunch, and as I dress, I glance at my beautiful handbags. For a moment, I long to sling one over my shoulder, to reclaim the confident, spirited woman I have always been.

As I near the restaurant, I quicken my pace. The anticipation of conversation, of laughter, of shared wisdom– it sparks something in me. Over lunch, I decide: I will reclaim my enthusiasm. I will extract joy from this moment like it’s the last drop in a honey jar.

This world may have changed, but I refuse to let it dim my spirit. Instead, I will find inspiration and carve out my own path to enthusiasm!

My new mantra:

I will not simmer in ineffectiveness. I will reawaken my spirit, my enthusiasm.

6 Ways to Find Inspiration and Reawaken my Spirit

1. THRIVE AT HOME

Home should be a sanctuary of inspiration. I will nourish my soul with classical music, fresh flowers, and the comfort of sentimental heirlooms. I will find joy in the everyday—watering my plants, cuddling my pup, America, and indulging in vibrant, fresh foods that bring color to my life.

2. CREATE DAILY

Creativity is a wellspring of enthusiasm. Whether it’s writing, storytelling, or even setting new goals, I will lean into creation to spark new energy within me.

3. CULTIVATE ENERGIZING FRIENDSHIPS

Enthusiasm is contagious. I will surround myself with people who uplift me, who bring laughter and lively conversation into my life.

4. SPRING FORWARD, ALWAYS

Life is about forward motion. When challenges arise, I will remind myself: If life hands you lemons, make lemonade and enjoy it in a beautiful glass.

5. THE POWER OF ATTITUDE

Enthusiasm isn’t just a feeling, it’s a mindset. I will choose optimism and remind myself that attitude shapes everything, and that a shift in perspective can shift an entire day.

6. SOLVE, DON’T DWELL

Problems will arise, but I won’t let them pull me under. Instead, I will stay calm, seek wise counsel, and move forward with intention. Enthusiasm thrives in a mind that is solution-focused.

Finding Inspiration in Nature

It may sound simple, but I have found that nature holds the key to so much of what we seek. My father once shared two memories with me, words that have never left my heart.

One day, he told me, “I always dreamed of being a gentleman farmer, but your mother would never hear of it.”

Another time, he said, “As a boy, I would take off my shoes and walk barefoot through the dew on the golf course. The feeling on the bottom of my feet was godly.”

So, I have decided: I will strengthen my relationship with nature. I will seek out its quiet wisdom, its boundless energy, its unwavering ability to grow and renew itself. Finding inspiration isn’t about waiting for it to come to us, rather it’s about choosing to see it, to embrace it, to let it guide us back to joy.

This is my commitment to myself. I will not simmer in ineffectiveness. I will reawaken my spirit, my enthusiasm, and my light while smiling with enthusiasm. Amen.

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