Have you ever heard of an “inspiration group”? I hadn’t until my friend’s neighbor invited her to join one. So, what exactly is an inspiration group? Well, it functions similarly to a book group, except there are no books! 
There are twelve women in the group and they meet once per month. Every year, each member takes a turn hosting. As hostess, she picks and plans the topic of the evening. For example, one hostess brought in an acting teacher and the women all learned to do improvisation. Another hostess brought in a guest who worked with each lady to identify her ‘colors’ (for fashion and make-up). They’ve done cake decorating, private museum tours, organic gardening, local philanthropy, flower arranging, and so on.
Sound fun? It does to me. My friend said one element of success is that the women aren’t each other’s BFFs, so the evening doesn’t devolve into discussing boyfriend/marital woes, child rearing issues, and so on.
If you’re looking for inspiration, maybe you could talk to some work colleagues, carpool friends, or other women you’d like to know better, and form your own inspiration group. If I were to host an event, I’d like to bring in a singer-songwriter to teach the group the basics of songwriting. If you were host, what would you do?
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xo-jamie
I LOVE this idea Jamie! Mine would totally be to have small canvases and paint for everyone, and that we paint together, just an abstract of some sort (i.e. no talent needed!), each in their own personal favorite three colors. Would be so cool to bring home a work of art.
🙂
maddee
Isn’t it a lovely kind of group? I haven’t figured out how to start one without offending a few friends (since you’re not supposed to make it your BFFs), but I’d love to be invited into a group like this. I like the art idea, too. In fact, I think my friend did do something along those lines as well. She’s been in it for 2 years…and some women have planned some pretty amazing experiences. I guess you could do a smaller group and meet 6x year or something….
Actually, we’ve been doing it for 4 years and still going strong. This month is the first time we included the husbands! I can’t say enough how fortunate I feel to be part of this lovely group. Many wonderful things I wouldn’t have thought to do if it weren’t for my “Inspiration Group”… A tour across the Brooklyn Bridge, guided meditation, rock climbing and Squash to name a few. My month is in the fall. Anyone have ideas for me??
I wish I had time to (a) be in a group like this, and (b) come up with ideas for you!! You always have original and interesting passions, so I’m sure you will find an idea when it is your turn to host!
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