"If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader" - John Quincy Adams

What is it that inspires you?  Why do you seek creative solutions to problems?  In fact, why do you look for problems to begin with? 

For me, the question is more about purpose than inspiration.  Finding purpose isn't easy, but there are some key exercises that can help you pinpoint your sources of inspiration or your search for purpose:

1. Think about how you like to spend your time
2. Think about what you are doing when time seems to pass by quickly
3. Think about what you consider to be your strengths
4. Think about what others always turn to you for
5. Think about your perfect day
6. Imagine your idea of a perfect world/solution
7. Pay attention to things that capture your imagination/fascination
8. Force yourself to work beyond easy answers
9. Carve out time to think, imagine and work out solutions in your head
10. Capture ideas as they occur (or at least shortly thereafter)

For me, trips to Disneyland and Disney World are inspiring.  Walking through the woods with my dog is inspiring.  Watching shows on travel are inspiring.  Networking with people who share my passion for innovation is inspiring.

Inspire yourself...then inspire others!