The Oxford English Dictionary defines inspiration as ‘the process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially to do something creative’. However, given the fact that inspiration is in fact quite a muddy concept that may mean different things to different people – and that inspiration is often difficult to obtain in our fast-paced, hyper-stimulated world – it’s easy to feel that inspiration is lacking in your daily life. Below are 5 ways to be awe-inspired in everyday life.

1.) Live in the moment

Numerous studies confirm the effectiveness of mindfulness, and the central premise of mindfulness is living in the moment. If you are more mindful, you will be more tuned in to your surroundings and will be able to take advantage of inspiration when it strikes. Living in the moment allows us to let go of the things over which we have no control and rather enjoy the things that we already have. If that’s not reason enough, here’s a list of 13 reasons to live in the present.

2.) Take an interest

To be inspired, you need to be interested. We are often so preoccupied and worried about work or financial matters that we don’t appreciate and take interest in the world around us, which can be a profound source of inspiration. Read, talk about or get engaged in something you enjoy and you’ll see that inspiration will come to you. Curiosity is a key factor in inspiration – embrace the power of curiosity and use it to fuel new interests and inspiration.

3.) Start a gratitude journal

Take five minutes each day to write down at least three things that you are grateful for in the moment. Although it might be a difficult habit to start, the routine of recording things we are grateful for is shown to raise self-awareness and foster feelings of thankfulness. It also becomes a source of inspiration as it provides a powerful reminder of the importance of gratitude on days when you are feeling less than fortunate. Happiness, gratitude and inspiration are inseparable in our daily lives.

4.) Enjoy nature

Take a break from your hurried life to go outside and enjoy the inspiring beauty of nature. Our lives are flooded with technology, news, gadgets and general distractions that occupy our time and obliterate the need to be creative and inspired. These 10 lessons that nature teaches us about everyday life are not only inspirational but also provide insight into core truths that need to be embraced.

5.) Embrace positivity

This article details five studies that prove the power of positive thinking. Perhaps the best way to be awe-inspired in everyday life is to commit to positivity through words and actions of affirmation, encouragement and success – whether you are speaking them over yourself or inspiring others, positivity holds the power to drive ambition and hope in a refreshingly creative way.  Visual stimulation with positive connotations and uplifting music are great channels of inspiration in everyday life.

Being awe-inspired in everyday life is not a requirement but rather provides an opportunity to admire your surroundings and be inspired by the subtle but significant things that we tend to overlook. Encourage yourself, stay curious, enjoy the moment, take a break outside and reflect on what you are grateful for – not only will you be inspired, you’ll also be able to serve as a great inspiration for others to be awe-inspired in their daily lives.

About this Contributor: Marcus Clarke is based in North Yorkshire, United Kingdom (UK). Marcus has a degree in psychology, a masters degree in health psychology and has worked within the National Health Service (NHS) as well as private organisations. Marcus started psysci a psychology and science blog in order to disseminate research into bitesize, meaningful and helpful resources that are interesting and insightful and often help people on the right track to improving their lives.