What inspires us to follow our dreams or to try something new? For each person the answer will be different – perhaps the words of a great leader from history, such as Gandhi, Winston Churchill or George Washington.

For some, it will be the connection to the divine expressed through spiritual leaders such as Muhammad, Christ or Buddha.

Or the feats of an athlete or sportsman, such as Michael Johnson, Usain Bolt or Cristiano Ronaldo.

We all need to be inspired in some way in order to push ourselves beyond our comfort zone.

For me, the most effective inspiration comes from those who care about us and show confidence in us. Buoyed by their faith, we can push ourselves further, try harder and for longer.

Those who are close to our hearts really can inspire us to do anything by showing faith in our abilities and encouraging us to try new ventures.

And the great thing is – it works both ways. If we can be inspired by the words of a loved one or close friend, we can do the same for others.

We all have the capacity to show someone that they are special and to set a great example for them. And with this capacity comes a responsibility: to share our passion, to do our best, to make a difference and to thank those that help us through the darkness.

For life can be hard at times and it is easy to get lost in the day to day drama of it all and let our dreams fade away with the passing of time.

Everyone has the capacity to be the light in someone’s life. If we reach out, connect and encourage, we will be amazed at what we can inspire others to do.