We know inspiration can be created using the engines of inspiration, but the problem with sparks is that they are hot, exciting, and intense and can burn out as quickly as they are created. When faced with the day-to-day grind and mundane challenges, inspiration cannot just be sparked; it must also be intentionally sustained over time.
The prospect of sustaining inspiration is one of the key and unique insights of this book. In this part of the book, we explore the analogy from the introduction that inspiration is like a muscle that needs to be exercised through intentional practice and focus. Although the initial spark of inspiration is characterized by feelings of invincibility and possibility, sustaining inspiration requires intentional practice and focus over time. Intentional practice is more than mindless repetitions. It’s a special type of behavior that is designed, purposeful, and systematic, requires focused attention, and is conducted with the specific goal of improving performance. We need systems, tools, resources, and ongoing, regular practice to keep our feelings of inspiration growing, salient, and strong.
You’ll learn how to sustain inspiration in four distinct ways:
1. Respark the engines. We think of this as keeping the spark alive by going back to the sparks again and again, sometimes combining engines in new ways to make the sparks even more potent.
2. Direct inspiration toward desired outcomes. Inspiration as an emotion feels good, but when it’s translated into great performance that leads to meaningful and desired outcomes, the result is a feedback loop of more inspiration.
3. Give your inspiration a boost. Most fires need the flames fanned. Critical to keeping inspiration alive is to build into your day positive rituals, accountability, and social support.
4. Manage your energy. Inspiration is energy; therefore, if your energy is suffering over time, it will get in the way of sustained inspiration. Managing energy through your body, emotions, and mindset are critical so you can bounce back quickly from setbacks and keep your inspiration flowing.
The four chapters in this part go into detail about how to intentionally sustain inspiration over time using these methods of intentional practice. These chapters focus more on the “how to” and provide specific tools for bringing inspiration more often and for longer periods of time.