The Impact of Inspiration on Achieving Goals

Why Inspiration Matters

Research proves that inspiration matters when it comes to achieving goals.  But in corporate cultures driven by performance-driven thinking, it is easy to dismiss the important role of inspiration. 

Inspiration has been proven to facilitate progress toward goals and to be a strong driver of productivity. Most importantly, studies show that the trigger of inspiration is exposure to inspiring mentors, role models, and heroes. 

Think about this: Is there anyone out there that inspires you – one who can put a little oomph in your step starting today?

BluePrint Consulting invites you to read more about how Robin Miller – New York Times Best Seller, TV Personality and busy mom – was inspired by her mentor to achieve success.
 
The Key to Success Often Comes From a Little Inspiration
By Guest Author Robin Miller

I’m Robin Miller – food writer, cookbook author, blogger, vlogger, TV personality, spokesperson, nutritionist, restaurateur, and busy mom of two amazing boys. Seems like a lot when written out like that... I’ve spent 25 years pursuing my dream, in an industry I adore…As did my hero and mentor – my dad.
 
My father, Francis G. Vitetta (Frank), created Vitetta Group (and subsequently VITETTA), an architectural and engineering firm known for designing and renovating numerous important structures and landmarks. But my dad was more than just an architect; he was a civic and political leader, Air Force veteran, and devoted family man. My dad’s compassion and drive were palpable, every moment of every day, and his imprint impacts my professional and personal life on every level.
 
 
Creativity and Passion
Architecturally, my dad created public structures of efficiency and functionality, many of which added beauty to the Philadelphia landscape. VITETTA is known for the Pennsylvania Convention Center, the Philadelphia Justice Center, the restoration of Philadelphia City Hall, Independence Hall, the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, the Academy of Music, and the old Bellevue-Stratford Hotel (currently the Fairmont).
 
But there’s more. My dad regularly served the civic goal of historic preservation. He cherished this work – preserving what’s important and meaningful. What I loved most was how he described the unique challenges of renovating prized historical sites, such as Independence Hall. VITETTA was hired to manage the replacement of the building's ancient HVAC, fire and security systems. He once said, "We pay a lot of attention to hiding things and making things disappear.” During the work, air-conditioning, lighting, heating, and electrical work needed to be installed without disrupting the essence of the landmark. He likened this task to asking a surgeon to do a heart bypass without breaking the skin.
 
The work was completed while keeping the national shrine open for the 3 million US and international tourists who annually walk through its halls. Clearly, this was more than just a “job”. The building and its visitors held a special place in my dad’s heart, and his work reflected that.
 
What holds a special place in your heart? Hold it close and never lose sight of what matters most.
 
Marketing
My dad always valued the importance of marketing, even though he often mentioned that, to many architects, marketing their services was beneath them. He once told a class of architecture students at Temple University, "Architects often put the aesthetics of their profession ahead of marketing; for many, marketing has always been a no-no, and some may still feel it is inappropriate." He added, “But without clients, architecture is useless, makes no sense, and is not fulfilling."
 
He warned the students, "You can be the best architect in the world, but not build anything."
 
Whether at golf outings, trade shows or political fundraising events, my dad always touted VITETTA’s capabilities in planning and designing facilities in the areas of health care, education, criminal justice, and historic preservation.
 
As a result, I am always thinking about how my expertise (whether it’s nutrition advise or meal planning) impacts the people around me. I’ve written 10 cookbooks, partake in public relations and marketing events regularly, teach cooking classes, and host speaking engagements where I respond to people’s questions on a one-to-one basis. Although our professions are clearly different, our goal is the same: if you have a service that meets people’s needs, let them know about it.
 
Leadership Built on Character and Compassion
My dad was an effective civil servant and leader – he served the Lower Gwynedd Township and Old York Road Country Club, lent his expertise to the Korean War Memorial for Veterans, and served on the Boards of the Civil War Underground Railroad Museum and Drexel University. Because he was an excellent listener and negotiator, he was relied upon as an expert arbitrator and consultant for the American Arbitration Association.
 
One of my proudest moments was when my dad was awarded an honorary doctorate from Arcadia University for his service as a trustee and benefactor. He served Arcadia in honor of my sister, Stacy, service which reflects his dedication to his own, and others’, life-long learning. This legacy is the quintessential example of his generosity and service to benefit others, whether it’s family, friends, or the greater community of Philadelphia. His warmth and works are felt by many, and I strive to live by his extraordinary example. I often think, “Have I given back lately?”
 
What I learned from my dad was this – the most effective leadership style is one that includes the “team”. He was strong yet flexible, resolved yet open-minded, authoritarian yet playful. All employees and colleagues knew that their opinion mattered, and the environment around him was always enthusiastic and proud. I know this because, before I became a nutritionist and food writer, I worked for him for many years. He was trusted and honored. He inspired us all. 

Who inspires you to reach for your goals?



Robin Miller has been a TV personality, food writer and nutritionist since 1990 and she is the author of ten books, including Robin Takes 5 and the New York Times bestseller, Quick Fix Meals. Her popular show, Quick Fix Meals with Robin Miller, aired on Food Network for 5 years.  Robin’s weekly food cover story appears in the Arizona Republic and her column, Robin’s Rescue, and associated videos can also be found on the site. Robin recently opened the Smart Carb Café, a gluten-free, smart-carb, fast casual restaurant located in the Merchandise Mart in Chicago, Illinois. She has plans to open a distinctive, unique and fine-casual restaurant in Scottsdale, Arizona in the fall of 2016. Currently, Robin appears on local, network and cable television. Programs and networks of particular interest include CBS This Morning and the Today Show.

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