Desire to Inspire: Using Creative Passion to Transform the World

by Christine Mason Miller, Tonia Davenport (Editor)

In  Desire to Inspire , readers will be introduced to twenty extraordinary women - writers, artists and entrepreneurs - all of whom share a unique example of how they create a meaningful life and, in turn, make a positive impact on the world. The stories and examples explore the roots of their desire to inspire and how they manage to pursue their passions in the midst of all the twists and turns life has given them. In addition to a beautiful collection of quotes, stories, and anecdotes, readers are given substantive, encouraging exercises aimed at supporting their own journey towards a meaningful, mindful life.

Genres: Art, Nonfiction, Self Help

144 pages, Paperback

First published December 2, 2011

Reviews

[liberal sprinkles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received my copy of this book on December 31; what a great way to start a new year! I ordered it online after reading some excerpts which really resonated with me. Christine Mason Miller desires to inspire and she does so in such an encouraging and uplifting way that she's got me excited about taking steps to live my life in a more purposeful and meaningful way.

The book is filled with touching testimonies from 20 female artists, writers, personal coaches and entrepreneurs who all aim to inspire others through their creative endeavors. Their stories and the inspiring quotes that pepper nearly every page are a wonderful guide on how to live our passions and dreams. The book sets us well on that path by breaking down into digestible bits what we need to do to lead a more fulfilling life; there's advice and exercises on believing in ourselves, being of service to others, setting goals, discovering core values, developing a mission statement, and generally, on being a force of good in the world. And making the world a better place is not some lofty and unattainable ambition: it's something we can all do easily and daily with small acts of love or kindness, as simple as saying thanks to a stranger.

Desire to Inspire is a book that truly nourishes the soul, and the message comes through in such a giving and compassionate way. The tone is conversational, the writers never talk down to you, in fact, I can almost feel them cheering me on. Not only are the words inspiring, so are the visuals. The book itself is a wonderful work of art: I love the layout and the gorgeous artworks give the book the feel of an art journal.

If you would like to understand yourself better, to be a better person and make a difference to the lives of others, I'd strongly recommend this book! It's one I will treasure, a companion I will have in my journey through life.

[JoAnna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I usually start my year out by reading a book that helps me realign my creativity and ideas for the months ahead, and this book did just that. It is beautifully illustrated, and that, more than the text, gave me some new sparkly thoughts and ideas. It was easy-to-read and inspiring, though the exercises are pretty standard for a book like this.

[Bridget · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lots a good ideas

[Marilyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think this is a possible book for our arty club. Looks like the tasks could be used by each of us for homework.

[Abdulla · Rating 5 out of 5]

A profound source of motivation and insight that can greatly influence your leadership and personal journey

[Jules · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I read this, I decided it was kind of light The Art's Way (by Julia Cameron) lite. There's lots to look at, practical exercises using a variety of mediums (and stuff you might have around the house), and not thick and daunting (like I find The Artist Way). If you are looking for something quick with pictures to inspire you and others, please read this.

[Tammy]

I enjoyed Desire to Inspire. The foundation and the concepts are great, but there just isn't enough content. And the content is not as deep as you would expect from the cover/blurb. A quick read, more like a lot of good blog posts.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

With input from many women creatives, this book is accessible, positive and nurturing without being cloying or condescending. It's rooted in common experience & inclusion. A self-help book for creative types presented in everyday language. Recommended.

[Relyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am glad I perused this book. I saw some great art and read some inspiring quotes. In the end, though, it was a little too Zen-self-help-ish for my taste.

[Susan Crozier · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a massively inspiring and joyful book, some amazing contributers, beautiful words, ideas and pictures.

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my all-time favorite books to get the creative juices flowing. Lots of great ideas from inspirational people... from writing to collage and drawing there will be something in this for you!

[Karen H · Rating 5 out of 5]

enjoyed this book very much.