Wellbeing & Meditation

INTERNATIONAL Women’s day and the amazing stories of women through the ages and around the world gave me much food for thought.

I was invited to give a talk to the inspirational Soroptimists who do excellent work in Wexford and around the world related to women, girls and peace.

The talk reminded me of some of the extraordinary women I have met in my life. There are so many – and I am sure you have met them too or at least ones with similar qualities. Some are famous.

Others not, but all have an impact. All faced adversity and it is how they rose to the challenges that inspired me and I am sure, others.

Some of life’s challenges we choose but more often than not, challenges choose us. When we choose ‘better’ when we face adversity, we grow and often inspire others in the process.

WHAT INSPIRES?

In my previous career, I met many extraordinary people facing challenges beyond what I could have imagined. I once visited a hospital in an African country that had run out of water on the day of my visit. Imagine the challenge of healing people in those circumstances. Imagine the resourcefulness required to solve the problems they were facing.

When I lived in India, I was inspired by Sr Nirmula Jyoshi who at the time was head of the Missionaries’ charity. She was fearless and always willing to move out of her comfort zone because of her beliefs and mission. She had previously headed their lessor known contemplative order and was thrust into the limelight when she was selected as Mother Teresa’s successor and even expanded the organization after her death. Imagine what big shoes she had to fill and yet she did so with grace, vision and courage.

We can motivate people (others and ourselves) to do things and even to change behavior through fear and greed or through inspiring them and connecting them to their passion and purpose. While fear is a powerful motivator, inspiration is far more so and can last a lifetime and empower people to do the most extraordinary things.

‘The most powerful weapon on earth is the human soul on fire.’ Ferdinand Foch

When we feel truly inspired, we can achieve the seemingly impossible.

Here are some of the traits the inspiring women I have been honored to meet had:

1. Courage: They felt fear but were never limited by it. It only gave them more compassion for others. They faced challenges and grew through them. They had and have the courage of their conviction and stand up for what they believe in even if it is unpopular.

2. They are very resourceful and utilise everything they have to solve problems. They leave no stone unturned.

3. They are loving, caring and altruistic. They are large hearted and willing to put themselves out for others. They are inclusive and non-judgemental.

4. They are ethical in how they work. They take responsibility and never blame others or themselves.

5. They have good boundaries. They work on themselves and are always striving to be and do better. They admit when they are wrong or make mistakes and move on.

6. They are life-long learners and grow consistently.

7. The realise the power of team and we. They want others to grow. They support, encourage, give credit and create win-win situations.

Over the last few days, I have enjoyed thinking about the amazing women, I have met. Take a few minutes over the coming days to think about the amazing people you know. What inspires you, will give insights into the qualities you want to develop, and powerful inspiration for your journey.