When we think of an inspiring person, we think of someone who consistently uplifts others or approaches life with infectious positivity. 

The irony is that these inspiring individuals often aren’t even aware of the impact they’re making.

These are the people who, without even realizing it, make us strive to be better, do better, and live better. Their actions and attitudes often go unnoticed or undervalued by them, but not by those who are lucky enough to be around them.

So here is my take on what makes someone truly inspiring.

1) Consistent positivity and optimism

A notable trait of truly inspiring individuals is their unwavering positivity and optimism.

They approach life’s challenges with a can-do attitude and see obstacles as opportunities to learn and grow.

This isn’t to say they’re always happy or that they ignore life’s hardships. Instead, they choose to focus on the good, radiating a positivity that often encourages those around them to do the same.

2) Desire to uplift and encourage others

Inspiring people often possess an innate ability to uplift and encourage those around them.

They seem to have a sixth sense for when someone needs support, and they’re often the first to offer a kind word or a helping hand.

And the thing is, they don’t do this to get recognition for their good deeds. It stems from a genuine desire to see others succeed and thrive.

This behavior aligns closely with emotional intelligence, a crucial factor in understanding and responding to the emotions of others effectively.

3) Authentic and genuine character

Truly inspiring individuals are authentic. They are true to themselves and their values, and this authenticity shines through in their actions.

They don’t pretend to be something they’re not, which makes them trustworthy and relatable.

4) Ability to listen and understand others

While it may seem like individuals who inspire others are always the ones talking or leading, it’s often the opposite.

They are usually excellent listeners, giving their full attention and understanding to those around them.

This quiet trait of patience and empathy makes others feel valued and heard, further amplifying their inspirational aura.

5) Persistence in the face of adversity

Inspiring people aren’t immune to life’s struggles. They face setbacks, disappointments, and failures just like everyone else.

But what sets them apart is their tenacity. They refuse to let adversity keep them down.

Instead, they learn from their mistakes, dust themselves off, and keep going with even more determination.

Their resilience is a powerful reminder that success isn’t about never falling, but about getting up every time we do.

6) Open-mindedness and acceptance of different perspectives

Inspiring people are often open-minded and welcoming of diversity. They understand that each of us has a unique journey and perspective.

Rather than dismissing what they don’t understand, they show genuine interest in learning from others.

This trait fosters an environment of acceptance and respect where everyone feels valued for their individuality.

7) Generosity with their time and resources

We often find inspiring people sharing what they have, be it their time, knowledge, or resources.

They could be the colleague who stays late to help you meet a deadline, the friend who shares a book they found helpful, or the neighbor who volunteers in the community.

This generosity, often carried out in everyday scenarios, makes their inspiring nature relatable and tangible.

8) Ability to inspire others through their actions

Inspiring people have a knack for leading by example. They might not be the loudest in the room, but their actions speak volumes.

Whether it’s their dedication to a cause, their kindness to strangers, or even their commitment to a healthy lifestyle, their actions can often motivate us to make positive changes in our own lives.

And the best part?

They usually do this while maintaining a sense of humor and light-heartedness that can brighten even the gloomiest of days.

9) Humility, often undervaluing their own impact

Inspiring people rarely see themselves as anything out of the ordinary. They often underestimate the impact they have on those around them, believing they’re simply doing what anyone else would.

But it’s precisely this humility that makes them so remarkable. Despite their significant influence, they remain grounded and focused on serving others, not on self-promotion.

It’s a reminder for the rest of us to stay humble, no matter how much we achieve.

10) The power of positive influence

While all these traits make someone inspiring, the most crucial thing to remember is the power of their positive influence.

Inspiring people have the ability to change our perspectives, encourage our dreams, and motivate us to become better versions of ourselves.

Their true power lies not in what they do for themselves, but in what they inspire others to do.

So, don’t just admire them – learn from them, and strive to pass on the inspiration to others.

Embracing the power of inspiration

As self-help author and motivational speaker Wayne Dyer once said, “When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”

The individuals who inspire us often don’t even realize the positive impact they’re making—they’re just being their authentic selves.

This isn’t about idolizing these individuals or putting them on pedestals. It’s about acknowledging their positive influence and learning from it. 

Remember, we all have the capacity to inspire others in our own unique ways.

As you live your life, aim not just to find such inspiring individuals but also to be one.

In doing so, we can all contribute to making our world a little more positive, supportive, and inspiring.