Last year, I decided to start taking inspired action. On my 2024 vision board, I pinned a cut out of a quote that read: “inspired action comes from the spirit, not from thinking, not from the ego.” This quote stood out to me among other options for that year because I found myself in this season where I really wanted to tune into my intuition. For those who find no value in tapping into their intuition will view this intention as risky. Why build a life based on something that isn’t concrete, logical? The only answer I can provide to that question is the simple fact that building my life by ego hasn’t gotten me anywhere near where I want to be. If anything, it caused burnout and an irritability toward pursuing goals. When I was led by ego, I did many things for show and the need for validation. It wasn’t until I started to lose that spark within me, that I decided something needed to change. So, I made it my mission to integrate inspired action into my daily routine.
What is Inspired Action?
As the name suggests, “inspired action” is action that is sparked by inspiration. I particularly like the way Deepak Chopra framed the word “inspiration.” Inspiration, he points out, is “in spirit”. So, to be inspired or to inspire is to infuse your spirit (or another’s) with energy and intention.
Inspired Action vs Ego-Driven Action
The difference between ego-driven action and inspired action lies in intention:
- Ego-driven action: Motivated by validation, fear, or external approval
- Inspired action: Motivated by alignment, curiosity, and meaningful impact
For example, when I post on Instagram, I pause to ask myself: Am I posting for attention (ego-driven)? Or am I sharing value with others (inspired action)?
By identifying your intention, you can distinguish inspired action from motivation masquerading as alignment.
Taking inspired action doesn’t come with a tried-and-true manual because it can look and feel different from person to person. That’s why it’s important to become a student of self and learn what works and resonates with you.
Aaliyah Inspired
I would be lying if I said that I always take inspired action. I’m human. Sometimes I still operate from the ego, but I try to make it a priority to take inspired action more often than I take ego-driven action. And unlike many things, taking inspired action doesn’t come with a tried-and-true manual because it can look and feel different from person to person. That’s why it’s important to become a student of self and learn what works and resonates with you.
How to Take Inspired Action (Step-by-Step)
Like with any skill, learning what is inspired-driven action and ego-driven action takes practice. If you put in the time to tune in with yourself and learn the difference between the chattering voices in your mind (which is usually ego) and that calm, quiet voice (which is usually spirit and intuition), then you’ll eventually learn how to spot when actions are driven by inspiration or by ego.
Step 1: Tune Into Your Intuition
Spend quiet time reflecting, journaling, or meditating to notice the calm, guiding voice of your spirit.
Step 2: Follow Your Curiosity
Notice ideas or impulses that spark excitement or curiosity. These often indicate opportunities for inspired action.
Step 3: Take Aligned Action
Act on opportunities that feel energizing and meaningful rather than forced (even small steps count!).
Step 4: Reflect and Adjust
After taking action, reflect on what felt aligned and what felt ego-driven and adjust your future actions accordingly
Examples of Inspired Action in Daily Life
When you make it a goal to integrate inspired action into your daily life, it can sometimes be hard to spot. Here are a few examples that show that you’re taking inspired action:
- Sharing knowledge with someone in need
- Starting a side project that excites you
- Saying “yes” to opportunities that feel aligned, even if risky
- Choosing to prioritize tasks that bring joy and growth over validation
Common Mistakes When Trying to Take Inspired Action
The journey to shedding ego-driven action will come with some trial and error, so here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Confusing motivation with inspiration
- Ignoring intuition in favor of ego or societal pressure
- Waiting for the “perfect” moment
- Overthinking instead of acting
If you enjoyed this blog post, let me know in the comments! Have you ever heard of “inspired action” before this post?
For similar posts, click here. To stay inspired, follow @ aaliyahinspired on Instagram and Youtube.
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