Hi there,

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Who do you look to for inspiration?

Your answer might change over time...especially as you grow into each new season of life, or into more of yourself.

My sources of inspiration shifted as my work path evolved. Here are just some of them:

• Scientists: Gregor Mendel for codifying genetics, Jane Goodall for her groundbreaking work in primatology
• Peacemakers: Nelson Mandela, Malala Yousafzai
• Polymaths: Leonardo da Vinci, Prince (the musician)

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When it comes to other musicians who inspire me, that too keeps evolving.

There are SO many facets to music, multiple genres or styles to explore, and dozens of instruments one could choose to master.

It's overwhelming...in an oh-so-good way.

One thing I've found useful in picking and choosing? Understanding the journey, and the story, of a (musician's) life.

It's why I love biopics, and why I appreciate documentaries.

Are they a full and accurate representation of a life? No.

Do they give us a sense of what's there? Absolutely.

I take what resonates, and move on from what doesn't.

Earlier today, I watched the documentary "Diane Warren: Relentless"

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Diane is a songwriter whose music catalog is valued at over half a billion dollars.

As impressive as that number is - and we're conditioned to focus on the cash - it's only a sliver of her story.

She's had icons from Beyonce and Gaga, to Cher and Kesha, sing her songs.

At the heart of it all? An unshakeable belief in her worth, and a relentless desire to be valued for it.

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Before watching the documentary, I'd only wanted to deconstruct her songs, to understand what makes them great.

Now, I'll also be inspired by her relentless spirit, and that single-minded determination to share her (songwriting) voice with the world.

After all, if you don't believe in what you have to offer, it's harder for others to believe in you.

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As we close out January 2025 - I mean, seriously, where does the time go these days?! - I hope you find what lights you up, and then honor it...relentlessly.

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Rock on, Reader ✌️

Want help to bring more peace into your world?

​Take my 2-minute "What's Your Jam" quiz and learn what your favorite songs say about you.

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