Inspiration and Motivation

There are points in our lives where we become really inspired or motivated to achieve, attempt or pursue something. Movies can inspire us, people can inspires us, books or blogs can inspire us.
Over the last week or so, I've talked to several co-workers, friends and students. The conversations with them have definitely been inspiring and motivating. Everyone loves the underdog! I love the stories of people achieving something they thought wasn't possible. When I here these stories, it makes me think of all the things I can do.

I won't give the names, but I will share some of the stories:

#1 I have a former student who didn't think she could pay for school. After submitting for a ton of scholarships and grants, she now has enough money to pay for all of her schooling. She went from not knowing how she was going to pay for school to know telling me how she'll be studying abroad in Australia, Germany and California. All because she put in some effort to chase her dreams of getting her education and traveling. She also just completed her first marathon, is talking about trying a triatholon, and persuing 2 masters degrees! Wow!

#2 Another friend wants to do more in life, so they've pretty much putting everything aside to go back to school and get the degree they want. The degree will eventually lead them to a career they will be perfect for. Got a call the other day from these friend, they were excited because all of the classes they took back in college way back when were accepted, so now they won't be in school as long as they thought. I love seeing people pursue what they are passionate about!

#3 My best friend was having a tough time with his basketball team. He's a great coach, know as a winner. His season didn't get off to a great start this year. His best player suffered a season ending injury during the first week. He had two of his worst defeats ever and his team just wasn't doing well. He could have quit and chalked things up for the season, but he's staying the course. Next thing you know his team wins a game by 30+, they almost upset a 1 loss team, and one of his players will be in the newspaper this week as the player of the week. The player is also getting offers from colleges. He's shown me that you should never give up, even during the though and dark times!

These are just a few stories, but there are tons more. Sometimes we get down and don't think we can achieve or do something. All we have to do is take a moment to see all the great stories around us!