What inspires you?

Now that I am semi-retired, I have a lot more time on my hands for reflection.  My latest thoughts are around inspiration.

As most of you know, I am very involved in my grad school alumni volunteer organization, HBS CAP.  We do pro-bono consulting for Boston area non-profits. During June and July we are busy meeting with potential clients to decide which ones we will work with over the next several months.

I must admit, on some of these lovely summer days, it sure is hard to get psyched to get dressed in business clothes and go meet with clients. I would much rather be out kayaking. But once I’m at the meeting, I’m fine. It is so inspiring to hear the clients talk about their organizations and missions! I never heard that sort of talk when I was working in the corporate world. I am in a great mood for the rest of the day.

On those days that I don’t have meetings, I try to find inspiration other places. It may be something as simple as admiring the bright sunshine streaming in the windows of our family room. It may be getting together with a dear friend. It may be the peaceful times of kayaking.

What inspires you?

Beautiful mountain picture from Unsplash.com.