Inspiration is all around us. Sometimes we have to look for it intently, while at other times it hits us over the head. Regardless, we all need it to maintain our drive and energy during low-tide.

When I discover a new song or rediscover an old favorite, I’ll download it or play it on YouTube over and over again. It’s tough to explain, but a great song can change my whole day,  elevating me above the rigors, stressors, and burdens of life. These ineffable moments are why many of us have watched “Rocky” or “Rudy” countless times. The right book or TED Talk also evokes transcendent emotions. Last year I listened to Janine Shepherd’s TED Talk three or four times because it gave me chills (I recommend you listen at least once).

This leads me to an important question. Are you telling your story? I think most of us are reticent to do so because we feel undeserving, believing only certain people are worthy of sharing their talents.  You would be surprised by how many people would not only listen but would be moved by your voice, talents, and experiences. If you don’t believe me, then listen to Steve Jobs. who said, “…..everything around you that you call life was made up by people that were no smarter than you. And you can change it, you can influence it, you can build your own things that other people can use. Once you learn that, you’ll never be the same again.”

A few years ago I visited New York City with my family. We were on a tight schedule but I wanted to visit the Museum of Modern Art because it housed Van Gogh’s “Starry Night”.  I felt like it was a unique opportunity to see a famous work of art in person.  My family stood 12 inches from this world-renowned painting and looked at it in awe. We are far from being art aficionados, but the moment was surreal. We could see the brushstrokes and colors meld together to form a true masterpiece. I’m glad Van Gogh painted despite being impoverished and relatively unknown. His work inspires people over 100 years later, even if he never lived to see the impact.

As we approach a new year, I encourage you to share your story, talents, and passions . We need them to stay inspired, motivated and uplifted. You might be ordinary, but so was everyone else who ever did anything significant. They just shared it with the world. I hope you choose to do the same.