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Essay Samples on Someone Who Inspires Me

At its core, inspiration is a powerful force that ignites passion, propels dreams, and molds individuals into extraordinary beings. It is the vibrant pulse that surges through our veins, pushing us to achieve greatness even in the face of adversity. Crafting an essay about someone who inspires you allows you to shine a spotlight on the transformative power of such individuals.

How to Write an Essay on Someone Who Inspires Me

Here are some useful example you shpuld consider when writing a college essay about someone who inspires you:

• Consider beginning with a heartfelt introduction that captivates the reader’s attention and sets the stage for the awe-inspiring journey to come.
• Share a personal anecdote or a defining moment that sparked the connection between you and your inspirational figure, allowing the reader to empathize with your experience.
• Delve into the qualities and actions that make this individual so inspiring. Explore their accomplishments, perseverance, and unwavering determination. Showcase how their words and deeds have impacted your life, shaping your values and aspirations. Be vivid and descriptive, illustrating the profound influence they have had on your personal growth and development.
• Weave in personal reflections throughout your essay. Share introspective thoughts and revelations, highlighting the lessons you have learned and the ways in which your perspective has evolved. By doing so, you invite the reader to embark on a transformative journey alongside you, creating a powerful emotional connection.

To aid you in your writing process, we provide a sample essay about someone who inspires you. It serves as a guiding light, illustrating the structure, tone, and depth needed to craft an outstanding piece. Drawing inspiration from this sample, embrace your unique voice, infuse your essay with passion, and let your words leave an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of the readers.

A Bond Beyond Words: Reflecting on My Relationship with Someone Special

There are moments in life when we cross paths with someone who transforms our world in inexplicable ways. For me, that person is someone special who has walked alongside me, sharing laughter, tears, and countless memories. Our relationship is a testament to the beauty of...

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A Beacon of Inspiration: A Descriptive Peace about the Person I Admire

Amidst the myriad of individuals who have crossed the path of my life, there is one who stands as a beacon of inspiration, illuminating the way with her unwavering determination, boundless compassion, and unyielding spirit. Her name is Emma, and her presence in my life...

A Person I Will Always Remember: My English Teacher

Throughout our lives, we encounter countless individuals who leave a lasting impact on us. Among them, there is always that one person who stands out — a person whose presence, actions, and words etch a permanent mark in our memories. In this essay, I will...

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My Grandmother as My Role Model: Her Role in Shaping My Identity

The identities of Americans are diversified. One’s identity is made up of a person's culture, heritage, personality, and how they strive to succeed. The identity of a person is created, through the hardships faced and their history, whether it is that one is born in...

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My Role Model and My Heroes: Mother and Father

Heroes can have a massive superb have an effect on on your life. My heroes are my mother and my dad. They are heroes to me each day and I have continually seemed up to them. I have always wanted to be just like my...

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Audrey Hepburn: Life Of A Timeless Inspiration Of Mine

When I think of an individual who I look up to and aspire to emulate, the first person that comes to mind is Audrey Hepburn. Audrey Hepburn’s career in both entertainment and humanitarian work is a path I know I will follow because it is...

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Oprah Winfrey and Ariana Grande: Women That Inspire Me

Oprah Winfrey was born in Mississippi on January 29,1954. Her parents were not married and broke up soon after she was born. Oprah Winfrey’s grandmother was strict and gave her plenty of discipline as she grew up on an isolated farm. Her grandmother taught her...

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St. Bernadette: The Woman That Inspires Me

The qualities that St. Bernadette of Soubirous has that I admire are; being humble, being modest, being obedient, and loving. I admire these qualities because they make a person better. Saint Bernadette was modest and humble because, she didn’t brag about seeing Mother Mary, and...

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Simone De Beauvoir One of the Greatest Woman

Simone-Ernestine-Lucie-Marie-Bertrand de Beauvoir was a French writer, political activist, feminist thinker and existentialist philosopher. She had worked alongside other famous existentialist such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus and Maurice Merleau-Ponty and was able to produce wonderful works such as She Came to Stay, Pyrrhus and...

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Ned Kelly: American Hero Or Villain

Ned Kelly was a bushranger and was born in June 1855 at Beveridge, Victoria. His father was John Kelly and his mother was Ellen Kelly. Ned became the father of his family at a very young age because of his fathers early death. In 1869...

Joan of Arc One of the Most Heroic Women in French History

Joan of Arc was one of the most heroic women in French history. She has claimed to hear voices that told her to lead France in the Hundred Years War leading France to some victories. Although some believe that the Joan of Arc heard the...

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Who Inspired Me to Become a Nurse

To me, nursing is a selfless job. You put the patients’ needs before yours to provide them with the care that they deserve. As a nurse, you are the healing hands. With the energy, compassion, and dedication you build with the patients, you make a...

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Mary Kom, The Person Who Inspired Me to Pursue My Dreams

A question simply arises in my mind that how someone can be a great leader. I thought on this and then I came across various leadership qualities which leaders are having in them. Let me explain first about the leadership qualities. Leader is a word...

The People Who Shaped Me

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Three People Who Influenced Me Throughout My Life

My parents are undeniably the people who gave me the most profound influence. I would not talk about them separately because they are truly in one flesh. My parents met each other at bible college, and after they married, they served in church and drug...

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Life Lessons in the Diary of Anne Frank

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The Diary of Anne Frank by Frances Goodrich: An Inspiration to All  

How would one respond to the most miserable and unpromising situation? In The Diary of Anne Frank by Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett, the main character, Anne Frank, is deprived of her freedom and forced to hide in a secret annex. As a Jewish girl...

Tara Curb, Her Acts of Kindness Association, and Her Unique Vision of Kindness

It is a late-afternoon, November 7, 2019, on a freezing thirty-five degree and gloomy Thursday at the University of Oklahoma Bizzell Memorial Library. In one of the conference rooms held a Acts of Kindness Association meeting. Running the organization meeting was a smart young woman,...

Biography of Jackie Robinson - National Hero

“A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.” (Jackie Robinson). In the United States in the 1940s, segregation was the way of life. You probably know Jackie Robinson as number 42; the first black man to play major league...

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Life And Art Of Andy Warhol

I remember the first time I saw Andy Warhol’s artworks was about ten years ago at an exhibition in Taipei, Taiwan. At that time, I was not a big fan of Andy Warhol and I didn’t understand why all the works that only show some...

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Best topics on Someone Who Inspires Me

1. A Bond Beyond Words: Reflecting on My Relationship with Someone Special

2. A Beacon of Inspiration: A Descriptive Peace about the Person I Admire

3. A Person I Will Always Remember: My English Teacher

4. My Grandmother as My Role Model: Her Role in Shaping My Identity

5. My Role Model and My Heroes: Mother and Father

6. Audrey Hepburn: Life Of A Timeless Inspiration Of Mine

7. Oprah Winfrey and Ariana Grande: Women That Inspire Me

8. St. Bernadette: The Woman That Inspires Me

9. Simone De Beauvoir One of the Greatest Woman

10. Ned Kelly: American Hero Or Villain

11. Joan of Arc One of the Most Heroic Women in French History

12. Who Inspired Me to Become a Nurse

13. Mary Kom, The Person Who Inspired Me to Pursue My Dreams

14. The People Who Shaped Me

15. Three People Who Influenced Me Throughout My Life

• Perseverance
• Career Goals
• Personal Experience

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How To Write A Speech That Inspires You Audience: 13 Steps

Learn how to write a speech that will effectively reach your audience.

A good speech is a powerful tool. Effective speeches make people powerful, whether in the hands of a world leader trying to get people to believe their ideology or in the mouth of a teacher trying to inspire students. A well-written speech can lift the hearts of a nation in times of war, inspire people to action when complacency is commonplace, honor someone who has died, and even change a nation’s mind on a particular topic, which, in turn, can change history.

Excellent speech writing is a skill that you must learn. While public speaking may come naturally to some people, the sentence structure and nuances of a powerful speech are something you must learn if you are going to gain the audience’s attention.

So how can you learn how to write a speech? The writing process is a little different than the process you’d use to write a paper or essay, so here is a guide that can help.

Materials Needed

Step 1: define your purpose, step 2: determine your audience, step 3: start your research, step 4: choose the right length, step 5: create an outline, step 6: craft the introduction, step 7: write the body, step 8: use transitions, step 9: conclude your speech, step 10: add some spice, step 11. implement spoken language, step 12: edit your speech, step 13: read it out.

• Research materials
• Audience demographic information

Before you can write a speech, you must know the purpose of your speech. You can deliver many types of speeches, and the purpose will determine which one you are giving. While there may be more than these, here are some common types of speeches:

• Informative speech: An informative speech strives to educate the audience on a topic or message. This is the type of speech a teacher gives when delivering a lecture. “ First World Problems ” by Sarah Kwon is an excellent example of an informative speech.
• Entertaining speech: This speech strives to amuse the audience. These are typically short speeches with funny, personal stories woven in. A wedding guest giving a speech at a wedding may be an example of this type of speech.
• Demonstrative speech: This speech demonstrates how to do something to the audience. A company showing how to use a product is delivering this type of speech.
• Persuasive speech: This speech aims to persuade the audience of your particular opinion. Political speeches are commonly persuasive. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s famous “ I Have a Dream ” speech is an example of a persuasive speech, as it called the government to make changes that protected civil and economic rights.
• Oratorical speech: An oratory is a formal speech at an event like a funeral or graduation. The goal is to express an opinion and inspire the audience, but not necessarily to persuade.
• Motivational speech: These speeches inspire people to take action, such as to improve themselves or to feel better and happier. For example, a coach may deliver this kind of speech to his players during halftime to inspire them to win the game. Steve Jobs’ 2005 Stanford Commencement Address is an excellent example of a motivational speech.
• Eulogy: A Eulogy is a funeral speech. This speech is given to the mourners at someone’s funeral and talks about the excellent character rates of the person who died. “ Eulogy for Rosa Parks ” is a famous example of this type of speech given by Oprah Winfrey in 2015.
• Explanatory speech: This final speech type describes a situation or item. These speeches often have step-by-step instructions on how to do a particular thing.

Your audience members are an essential part of the speech writing process. Consider taking notes about your audience before you start writing your speech. You can even make a fake audience member you are writing toward as you prepare your speech. Even though they do not directly impact what you talk about, they should impact how you talk about it. Therefore, you must write your speech to reach that particular audience.

For example, if you are writing a speech for an audience that does not agree with you, you will need to bring more facts and figures to persuade them of your opinion. On the other hand, if you are writing a speech for an audience already on your side, you must encourage them to hold the line. To get to know your audience, consider factors like:

• Income level
• Pain points
• Questions they might ask

Before you outline or write your speech, you must know some facts about the big idea or speech topic. So perform some research, and take notes. See if you can find any new or surprising information in your research. If it was new and surprising, it also might be to your audience members. You can use this research to make the essential points of your piece.

Finally, know the required length of your speech. Speeches usually have time limits, not word count limits. You will need to know the desired length before you can start writing the speech, or you will end up with a speech that is too long or too short. The length of your speech will vary depending on where you are giving it and who your audience is.

Generally, a 20-minute speech is standard when delivering a speech to adults in a professional or academic setting. However, if you are a student who is preparing a speech for a classroom, you may be limited to three to five minutes. Sometimes speakers will get booked to take on a 60-minute session, but if you talk for 60 minutes, you will lose the attention of some of your audience members.

Remember, some of the most famous speeches in history are very short. President Abraham Lincoln’s “ Gettysburg Address ” was less than 300 words long and took less than two minutes to deliver. President Franklin Roosevelt’s “ Day of Infamy ” speech lasted less than 10 minutes. However, knowing your speech’s length can be challenging after you prepare it. Generally, a double-spaced page of writing will take about 90 seconds to speak. Thus, a 20-minute speech will take about 13 typed, double-spaced pages if you type out your entire speech.

Consider using a words-to-minutes calculator to determine how long your speech likely is. Remember that the average English speaker speaks 140 words a minute. You may get up to 170 words a minute if you speak fast. If your speech is slow, it may be as little as 110 words a minute.

Now you are ready to start writing. Before you write a speech, you must create an outline. Some public speakers will speak from an outline alone, while others will write their speech word-for-word. Both strategies can lead to a successful speech, but both also start with an outline. Your speech’s outline will follow this template:

• Introduction: Introduces your main idea and hooks the reader’s attention.
• Body: Covers two to three main points with transitions.
• Conclusion: Summarizes the speech’s points and drive home your main message.

As you fill in these areas, answer these questions: Who? What? Why? and How? This will ensure you cover all the essential elements your listeners need to hear to understand your topic. Next, make your outline as detailed as you can. Organize your research into points and subpoints. The more detail on your outline, the easier it will be to write the speech and deliver it confidently.

As you prepare your speech, your introduction is where you should spend the most time and think. You only have moments to capture your audience’s attention or see them zone out in front of you. However, if you do it right, you will cause them to turn to you for more information on the topic. In other words, the introduction to a speech may be the most memorable part, so it deserves your attention. Therefore, you must have three main parts:

• Hook: The hook is a rhetorical question, funny story, personal anecdote, or shocking statistic that grabs the listener’s attention and shows them why your speech is worth listening to.
• Thesis: This is your main idea or clear point.
• Road map: You will want to preview your speech outline in the introduction.

Here is an example of a good introduction for a persuasive speech from Jamie Oliver’s TED Talk about children and food:

“Sadly, in the next 18 minutes when I do our chat, four Americans that are alive will be dead from the food that they eat.”

This shocking statistic gets the audience’s attention immediately. In his speech, Oliver details why America’s food choices are so poor, how it affects them, and how we can teach children to do better.

Here is an example of an informative speech about pollution and what can be done about it. This introduction follows the template perfectly.

“I want you to close your eyes for a minute and picture a beautiful oceanfront. The sound of the waves crashing on the sand while seagulls fly overhead. Do you have it? Now I am going to say one word that will destroy that image: Pollution. What changed in your mental picture? Do you now see sea turtles with bottles on their head or piles of debris washing on shore? Marine pollution is a massive problem because plastic does not decompose. Not only does it use up many resources to create, but it rarely gets disposed of properly. We must protect our natural areas, like that beautiful beach. Today I am going to show you how destructive the effects of plastic can be, how it is managing our natural resources, and what steps we can take to improve the situation.”

Now you are ready to write the body of your speech. Draw from your research and flesh out the points stated in your introduction. As you create your body, use short sentences. People can’t listen as long as they can read, so short and sweet sentences are most effective. Continuing the theme of the marine pollution speech, consider this body paragraph.

“You might be thinking plastic isn’t a big deal. Let’s think for a minute that you’re at the beach drinking bottled water. According to “The Problem with Plastic,” an article by Hannah Elisbury, one out of every six plastic water bottles ends up in recycling. The rest become landfill fodder. Worse, many get dropped in nature. Perhaps you are packing up at the end of your beach trip and forget to grab your bottle. Maybe your kid is buried in the sand. Now it’s adding pollutants to the water. That water becomes part of the drinking water supply. It also becomes part of the fish you eat at your favorite seafood restaurant. Just one bottle has big consequences.”

As you write the body, don’t stress making every word perfect. You will revise it later. The main goal is to get your ideas on paper or screen. This body paragraph is effective for two reasons. First, the audience members likely use water bottles, which resonates with them. Second, she uses a resource and names it, which gives your work authority.

It would be best to use transitions to move from each speech section. This keeps the audience engaged and interested. In addition, the transitions should naturally merge into the next section of the speech without abruptness. To transition between points or ideas, use transition words. Some examples include:

• Coupled with
• Following this
• Additionally
• Comparatively
• Correspondingly
• Identically
• In contrast
• For example

You can also use sequence words, like first, second, third, etc., to give the idea of transition from one thought to the next. Make sure your speech has several transition words to drive it through to completion and to keep the audience engaged.

In his speech “ Their Finest Hour ,” Winston Churchill uses transitions well. Here is an excerpt from his conclusion:

“ But if we fail, then the whole world, including the United States, including all that we have known and cared for, will sink into the abyss of a new Dark Age made more sinister, perhaps more protracted, by the lights of perverted science. Therefore, let us brace ourselves to our duties and bear ourselves that, if the British Empire and its Commonwealth last for a thousand years, men will still say, “This was their finest hour.”

Notice that he uses “therefore,” “so,” and “but.” Each of these transition words effectively moves the speech along.

Your conclusion needs to restate your thesis but differently. It should personalize the speech to the audience, restate your main points and state any key takeaways. Finally, it should leave the audience with a thought to ponder.

Here are some practical ways to end a speech:

• Use a story
• Read a poem
• State an inspirational quote
• Summarize the main points
• Deliver a call to action

Here are some examples of fantastic conclusions:

• Here is an excellent example of a concluding statement for an inspirational graduation speech: “As you graduate, you will face great challenges, but you will also have great opportunities. By embracing all that you have learned here, you will meet them head-on. The best is yet to come!”
• A CEO that is trying to inspire his workforce might conclude a speech like this: “While the past year had challenges and difficulties, I saw you work through them and come out ahead. As we move into the next year, I am confident we will continue to excel. Let’s join hands, and together this can be the best year in company history!”
• In “T he Speech to Go to the Moon, ” President Kennedy concluded this way: “ Many years ago the great British explorer George Mallory, who was to die on Mount Everest, was asked why did he want to climb it. He said, “Because it is there. Well, space is there, and we’re going to climb it, and the moon and the planets are there, and new hopes for knowledge and peace are there. And, therefore, as we set sail we ask God’s blessing on the most hazardous and dangerous and greatest adventure on which man has ever embarked.” Many speechwriters say something like “in conclusion” or “that’s all I have for you today.” This is not necessary. Saying “in conclusion” could cause your audience to stop listening as they anticipate the end of the speech, and stating that you have said all you need to say is just unnecessary.

Now that you have the basic structure, you’re ready to add some spice to your speech. Remember, you aren’t reading a research essay. Instead, you are making an exciting and engaging spoken presentation. Here are some ideas:

• Consider giving your speech some rhythm. For example, change the wording, so it has a pace and cadence.
• Work to remove a passive voice from your sentences where possible. Active speaking is more powerful than passive.
• Use rhetorical questions throughout because they make the listener stop and think for a moment about what you are saying.
• Weave some quotes into your speech. Pulling famous words from other people will make your speech more interesting.
• Where possible, use personal stories. This helps your audience engage with you as the speaker while keeping the speech interesting.

You may not use all of these ideas in your speech, but find some that will work for the type of speech you plan to give. They will make it more exciting and help keep listeners engaged in what you are saying.

Writing a speech is not like writing a paper. While you want to sound educated with proper grammar , you need to write in the way you speak. For many people, this is much different from the way they write. Not only will you use short sentences, but you will also use:

• Familiar vocabulary: This is not the time to start adding scientific terminology to the mix or jargon for your industry that the audience won’t understand. Use familiar vocabulary.
• Transitions: Already discussed, but spoken language uses many transition words. Your speech should, too.
• Personal pronouns: “You” and “I” are acceptable in a speech but not in academic writing.
• Colloquialisms: Colloquialisms are perfectly acceptable in a speech, provided the audience would readily understand them.
• Contractions: We use contractions when we speak, so we also use them in speeches, while some writing platforms and assignments do not allow them.
• Repetition: Repeating words and phrases makes them memorable. This helps emphasize the main ideas and works well in speeches.

Now you are ready to edit your speech. Remember, spoken language is acceptable, but grammar errors may not be ideal. As you edit, pay attention to the length of sentences. Shorten any long ones. Also, watch for those transition words. Add them in if you need to. Remember, a well-written speech takes time. Put in the effort to revise and improve it, and you will be rewarded with an effective speech that is easy to deliver. If you still need help, our guide to grammar and syntax explains more.

Now that you have written your speech, you are ready to read it. Read it out loud at your average speaking speed, and time yourself. This will tell you if you are within your allotted time limit. However, reading it has another benefit. When you read the piece, you can determine if it flows smoothly. You may catch grammar issues or poor transitions that you can change. Look for places where the speech may be hard to speak and adjust those sentences to make them more accessible.

After you update the speech, practice it again. Reading it, revising it, rereading it, and repeating it will help you create a speech that flows well. This process will also help you become familiar with the speech so you can deliver it confidently when your speaking engagement comes.

Looking for inspiration? Read our round-up of argumentative essays !

Nicole Harms has been writing professionally since 2006. She specializes in education content and real estate writing but enjoys a wide gamut of topics. Her goal is to connect with the reader in an engaging, but informative way. Her work has been featured on USA Today, and she ghostwrites for many high-profile companies. As a former teacher, she is passionate about both research and grammar, giving her clients the quality they demand in today's online marketing world.

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How to Write a Speech About Someone I Admire

Tips on Writing a Welcome Address at a High School Graduation

It is an honor to be asked or to be able to write a speech about someone that you admire. When the task is to write a speech, it can feel like a daunting endeavor, particularly when the subject is someone you look up to or who had a large impact on your life. Whether it is for an award ceremony or a school assignment, family reunion or wedding anniversary, cobbling together a compelling speech about someone you admire can be a moving moment as well as an enjoyable experience.

Getting Started on Speech Writing

Before you reach for all the words, begin with just a few. Create an outline that will touch on your key points. Consider the person and jot down what comes to mind when you concentrate on the individual as well as how he or she has made an impact on you and others. If it is a family member, reach into the past and showcase some of his or her early experiences.

Once you have a relatively rough outline of what you hope to touch on, write your introduction. The introduction sets the tone and grabs your audience. Some ways to craft an attention-grabbing introduction is to start with a question, a well-known joke or anecdote. Make sure it is something that the entire audience can understand.

Person I Admire Speech Body Basics

When writing a speech about someone you admire, turn your attention not only to the person, but accomplishments, inflections of speech or other personal traits. There are two objectives when giving a speech, to make a good impression and leave the audience with a clear and informative understanding of your subject. Consider your audience before sitting down to write your speech. The missive should reflect the occasion, either light and jovial or stern and touching. Focus your audience’s attention on the main facts quickly by giving a preview in the opening descriptive paragraph. Establish goodwill from the beginning and grab the crowd’s attention with a pithy turn of phrase or poignant piece of literature.

Reach Out for Inspiration

Look at an example of a speech about someone who was admired for speech writing tips. Comedian and actress Maya Rudolph gave a gripping commencement speech in 2015 that focused on people that she admired. These included her family as well as people she admired in the industry, including Oprah Winfrey and Beyonce. If you need moments of inspiration while you are writing your speech about someone you admire, turn to those who have gone before you. Studying compelling speeches can help you understand how to convey emotion and impact through your carefully chosen words. If you are writing about family members, ask those who have given speeches in the past for encouragement.

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• University of Pittsburgh: Speaking in the Disciplines (SID)
• Forbes: 10 Key Ways to Write a Speech

Kimberley McGee is an award-winning journalist with 20+ years of experience writing about education, jobs, business trends and more for The New York Times, Las Vegas Review-Journal, Today’s Parent and other publications. She graduated with a B.A. in Journalism from UNLV. Her full bio and clips can be seen at www.vegaswriter.com.

Home > Blog > Speaking 101 > 10 Motivational Speech Examples To Inspire You Today

10 Motivational Speech Examples To Inspire You Today

Whether you’re a speaker or not, there come times in all of our lives where we need a little motivation. Maybe you’re struggling to find your purpose or are unsure about your path in life. Maybe you just had a bad day and need a reminder that tomorrow’s a fresh start. In either case, looking to famous speakers – and their corresponding motivational speech examples – is one sure way to boost your mood and help you find the energy to keep on keepin’ on. 

Here, we’ll look at ten different speeches from some of the most famous motivational speakers of the 21st century. Some are serious and take a candid look at difficult issues in the speakers’ lives. Others are humorous, designed to balance tough topics with laughter. 

Whatever tone you need to hear at this moment, at least one of the following speakers is guaranteed to brighten your day. They’re also all incredible examples for you to follow, simply from a speaking standpoint, when you next step on stage or record a virtual event . 

Hopefully, you get as much out of these examples as our own team did and are able to put the corresponding takeaways to good use. 💓

Steve Jobs: Commencement Speech At Stanford (2005)

First of our motivational speech examples is Stanford’s 2005 commencement speech, delivered by the late Apple founder Steve Jobs. Since his passing , much has been said about Jobs, some positive, some negative, with some people going so far as to publish their criticism or praise. However, regardless of whether or not they personally admired him, few will argue against Job’s brilliance. Even for those that scrutinized his business practices or personal life while he was alive, there’s little doubt that he was a major force in shaping the world we live in today through the technology he created. 

In this speech, Jobs’ mindfulness for these differing views is readily apparent, and overall, the entire speech is surprisingly humble. Jobs structures his speech as three simple stories, and of course they’re anything but simple, once you dig beneath the surface. 

One is a rags-to-riches story, which is expected, considering Jobs’ success. Second is a story of adversity in which Jobs explains the issues he faced after being “fired” from Apple. 

But it’s the third story – one about death – that’s truly surprising. It’s not a subject you’ll hear in many commencement speeches, let alone motivational ones. Yet, in telling this story, Jobs manages to present it in a way that it’s not depressing or scary but instead inspires his audience to live life to the fullest. 

In the same way, as you shape your own motivational speeches or as you approach challenging situations, remember that simplicity and logic are all well and good, like the stories Jobs includes at the beginning of his speech. But, if you want to truly stand out and conquer your challenges, be courageous! Approach tough topics head-on, don’t be afraid to be unconventional, and you’re sure to leave a mark, just like Jobs did.

Richard St. John: 8 Secrets of Success TED Talk (2005) 

Second of our motivational speech examples is that of author, marketer, and analyst Richard St. John , namely his 2005 TED Talk. TED Talks have become a staple in the world of motivational speeches, and it’s easy to see why this one made the cut. Based on his book , 8 To Be Great , St. John’s speech cuts to the chase in a way that most speeches don’t. In fact, it’s only three minutes long! 

Plus, although many of his points are simple, the speech itself is structurally brilliant, condensing 7 years of research and 500 of St. John’s interviews into a presentation that, despite its brevity, keeps audience members on their toes. Altogether, it’s a brilliant example of the use of momentum in storytelling. When it starts, for instance, St. John begins with “It all started one day on a plane,” which for many listeners – myself included – would seem like a signal to tune out a bit. It’s like hearing a speech that starts with “Webster’s Dictionary defines…” It works, but it’s used a lot . 

That said, the rest of St. John’s speech is the polar opposite, and quickly jumps from one interesting point to another without any wasted words or time. It also incorporates carefully-placed jokes. That way, even though he covers a lot of ground, his audience remembers all of it. It also allows him to connect with his audience and, unlike many speakers, share his information without appearing to be on a pedestal. 

With your own experiences or motivational speeches, St. John’s speech offers two important lessons. First, keep it simple. You don’t have to be flashy to be memorable. Second, don’t be afraid to laugh. In presentations, humor makes you more relatable and memorable, and in life, it makes hard times easier to handle. 

Dan Pink: The Puzzle of Motivation TED Talk (2009)

Third in our list of motivational speech examples is another TED Talk, this time from career analyst and bestselling author Daniel Pink. As an author, Pink’s built his reputation on many “legs,” including his publications, awards – even a stint as chief speechwriter for former U.S. Vice President Al Gore in the late 1990s.

Like these accomplishments, Pink’s TED Talk is a model for any speaker that needs to take a boring topic – like business or politics – and turn it into something inspiring and engaging. In this case, the former of these topics is presented as a puzzle. To start with, Pink explains the common economic approach to performance, saying “If you want people to perform better, you reward them. Right?… That’s how business works.” 

However, what he says next is what really puzzles you, as a listener: There is a mismatch between what science knows and what business does….the solution is not to do more of the wrong things, to entice people with a sweeter carrot, or threaten them with a sharper stick. We need a whole new approach.”

Ultimately, the topic of performance in the workplace is a relatively common one and the question “How do I motivate myself at work?” is a common puzzle. But Pink tackles out-of-the-box thinking in an out-of-the-box way and, in the end, concludes his story with a clear takeaway from the evidence and unconventional analytics he’s shared.

Likewise, with your own speeches or decisions, start by considering all the evidence you can find. That’s just a good rule of thumb, no matter what field you’re in. But, after that, try to consider it from another angle. Like Pink’s speech, it’ll make your topic vastly more interesting, and you’re almost guaranteed to grow, personally, because of your learning process.

Mel Robbins: How to Stop Screwing Yourself Over (2011)

Number four of our motivational speech examples belongs to Mel Robbins . As speakers go, Robbins is widely respected for her unique and candid approach to difficult situations, or, as I call it, the “gut-punch” approach. In other words, she’s not afraid to talk frankly about tough stuff. 

Dig beneath the one-liners and snarky comments, though, and Robbins’ approach is really about being direct to the point of bluntness. Some of the things she advocates are platitudes – focus on getting what you want, tell yourself the truth, force yourself out of your comfort zone, etc. – but she always backs it up with data that makes the gut punches land that much harder. 

Beyond her speaking style, however, Robbins is also known for engaging with her audiences. In this speech, for instance, she not only picks an individual from her audience to highlight the overwhelming odds of simply being born (this is the data we just talked about). She then goes on to meld that statistic with a model of the human brain, saying “I describe one side of your brain as autopilot and the other side as an emergency brake” and explaining her method for getting out of your own “autopilot” mode to meet your goals.

In this way, by presenting evidence but then relating it to a real person in the room, Robbins takes a subject that could be complicated or boring and makes it relatable. Likewise, if your speaking material – or your mood – has a tendency to flatline, change things up! Be blunt with yourself and candid with your audience. Then, do whatever you need to connect your message to other’s lives. Just like Pink’s speech, taking this Mel Robbins, “gut-punch” approach will make you relatable and likable, making you memorable.

Michelle Obama: Commencement Speech at Eastern Kentucky University (2013)

Next in our list of motivational speech examples is another commencement speech, this time from former lawyer, bestselling author , and First Lady to the 44th President of the U.S. Michelle Obama. 

Since stepping into the spotlight at the White House, Obama’s been regarded by many as a woman of power, and her personal and professional accomplishments are without question. In some ways, they’ve even helped her become a celebrity. This level of fame, however, is precisely where Obama’s similarity to celebrities ends. 

For many celebrity motivational speakers, speaking is just a gig, and the amount of time they want to spend on it corresponds directly with the money they receive to be there. In cases like these, it’s clear to the audience that the speaker may not even believe what they’re saying on stage or want their audience to succeed. They just want the paycheck. 

Yet, despite Obama’s popularity and prominence, her approach to speaking is anything but flippant or snobby. It’s all about connecting with the audience in a way that shows true generosity of spirit. In fact, every point Obama touches on is quickly translated and related to her audience in a way that’s both personal and powerful, making it clear that this speech isn’t haphazardly thrown together or something she’s said to hundreds of other audiences. It was carefully crafted to tie her core values – resilience, conscientiousness and service – into the setting and the needs of her audience, so they could leave with personalized affirmation and action steps. 

By doing this, Obama never fails to deliver a message that is both moving and quietly powerful. To do the same with your own speeches, follow her lead and remember who you’re there for: not the check, not the glory, but your audience .

Brené Brown: “The Power of Vulnerability” (2013)

Number six of our motivational speech examples is the shortest on this list, a less than three-minute short film from University of Houston research professor Dr. Brené Brown . 

Although Brown originally gained traction with her 20-minute TED Talk in 2010, this speech (or “mini-speech,” rather) takes the topic of that talk – vulnerability – and concentrates on a single facet of it. Specifically, she focuses on empathy and the age-old question of how to express empathy rather than sympathy and, in doing so, authentically connect with the person you’re trying to support in the moment. 

It’s a hard question, but, like Richard St. John’s speech, Brown shares a lot in a short message. In many ways, it’s her brevity that forces you to sit up and listen. In a little more than two minutes, her message is simple: When someone you know feels down and alone, don’t try to make things better. Just be there with them, and stick around, even if it takes them a while to bounce back. 

To illustrate her point, Brown presents her speech alongside an animated cartoon in which a fox is the depressed party and a bear comes to her aid. This helps her take a challenging and sometimes uncomfortable situation and not just make it engaging but also light-hearted. 

Similarly, if your speech tackles a tough message, consider presenting with a visual aid to lighten the mood, and keep the message as brief as possible. Don’t be the motivational speaker equivalent of “that guy,” i.e., the speaker who drones on and on but keeps repeating the same basic points. Use your speaking ability and visual aids to make a connection in the way that suits your audience best.

Jim Carrey: Commencement Speech at Maharishi University of Management (2014)

Seventh of our motivational speech examples is a 2014 commencement speech, this time from comedian, actor, and artist Jim Carrey. As you’d expect, part of Carey’s charm is his sense of humor, and it’s largely through his comedy that he keeps the audience engaged through serious topics. He’s also mindful of his tendency to walk the comedic line and uses this unpredictability to keep his audience paying attention, as they can pretty safely assume he has another joke up his sleeve.

Additionally, besides humor, Carey also engages his audience with something we’ve yet to touch on: authenticity! Unlike the other speakers in this list, Carey is widely known for his eccentricity more than anything. Most recently, as he’s shared more and more of his artwork, he’s also gained considerable attention for his creativity. Throughout his speech, although many speakers might choose to “dumb down” these attributes, Carey instead thrives on them, staying true to his authentic self, just as he encourages the members of his audience to be. 

To conclude his speech, Carey states: “You’ll come up with your own style, and that’s part of the fun… You are ready and able to do beautiful things in this world, and after you walk through those doors today, you will only ever have two choices: love or fear. Choose love and don’t ever let fear turn you against your playful heart.”

With your own speeches – and your own personal choices – keep this mindset close and remember to be yourself. Like Carey says, “you are ready and able to do beautiful things”. Plus, I can almost guarantee there are people out there who could benefit from the stories you have to share. Just stay true to yourself, stay humble, and your audience won’t want to look away.

Simon Sinek: Live2Lead (2016)

Next in our list of motivational speech examples is a speech from writer and TED speaker Simon Sinek . As author of the bestselling leadership book Start With Why , Sinek first appeared in his 2009 TED Talk , “How Great Leaders Inspire Action.” 

Since then, he’s gone on to publish a number of additional books centered around leadership as well as how to “wake up inspired, feel safe wherever [we] are and end the day fulfilled by the work [we] do.” These three ideas can be seen consistently throughout his ongoing work, speaking included. 

In this speech, specifically, Sinek deals with leadership in the business world, but his approach is based on the idea of destroying stereotypes everywhere. In short, he’s there to “blow up” paradigms and share new ones, based on his own research and experience. Here, Sinek focuses on “trust” and “communication,” for the former. Then, he proposes replacing them with “empathy” and “perspective,” for the latter. 

Although this may sound ordinary, Sinek demonstrates that he’s not just replacing one stereotypical topic with another. He’s also urging audience members to ditch their preconceptions about that topic, so they can approach it with an open mind. After having done that, he’s then careful to only provide extremely relevant and powerful arguments for his “new take” on the topic. That way, he provides details without overwhelming the audience.

Overall, these switches between “blowing up” and building provide a sense of balance in Sinek’s speech. In your own speeches, aim for a similar balance for your audience. Keep in mind that you’re there to educate but not berate with a ton of new ideas. It sounds simplistic, but staying consistent and on-point is key if you want your audience to leave inspired to act. 

Simon T. Bailey: To Break Through, Find Your True Calling (2017)

Number nine of our motivational speech examples is a 2017 speech from Simon T. Bailey. If you’re a regular SpeakerFlow blog reader, you already know there are many reasons Bailey is legendary among professional speakers. For one thing, his personal branding and digital presence are two of the best in the speaking industry. For another, his humility is seemingly endless despite his success, a trait that’s perhaps best summarized in his book, Success Is An Inside Job : “Success is not significance. Money is not meaning. Power isn’t purpose.”

In this speech, we see this idea reinforced through the third thing that sets Bailey apart, namely his speaking skills. Because he’s talking to a business-oriented crowd, in many ways, this skill isn’t immediately apparent. Truthfully, the first part of his speech is traditional. While it’s undeniably engaging, it’s sometimes a little hard to see why he’s such a renowned orator. 

Then he digs deeper. After his initial “traditional” approach, Bailey pivots to a creative angle, explaining how to “invent your future” and be unconventional in simple ways to slowly change your mindset. He then goes on to incorporate topics like emotional equity and commitment, love and respect as universally important values, and his trip to South Africa to “get free.” Combine this surprising switch from “conventional” to “creative” with Bailey’s optimistic tone, and you can almost feel the audience connecting with him. 

To create the same atmosphere on your own stage, aim for a similar element of surprise. Remember that you’re there to speak for more than a few minutes. Consequently, building up to a powerful ending is crucial, even if that means starting slow. 

Matthew McConaughey: Commencement Speech at University of Houston (2018)

Last but not least in our motivational speech examples list is a 2018 commencement, delivered by Matthew McConaughey. 

As an actor, McConaughey has arguably delivered motivational speeches in almost all of his movie appearances. In fact, whether it’s The Lincoln Lawyer , Mud , We Are Marshall, or Dallas Buyers Club , one of his best tricks as an actor is to take each of his characters by the horns and deliver a rousing speech at a critical point in the film.

Outside of the big screen, however, McConaughey’s commencement address for the University of Houston reflects similar confidence and power, in his words, his clothing, and his body language. As a well-known celebrity, this isn’t entirely surprising, especially considering his famously “swoon-worthy” movie persona. 

That said, when he gets to the heart of the matter, McConaughey dives well beneath the surface. His pointed words about motivation, success, and life being both tough and unfair are striking in a way you don’t always hear from celebrity speakers. He may begin with platitudes and stereotypes. But, the more he explains, the more intimate the speech gets. This makes it more memorable than even his best movie speeches.

So, what can you take away from McConaughey’s speech? Simply put, whenever you’re trying to put your best foot forward, whether you’re on stage or just walking down the street, remember that being memorable doesn’t require heels or a suit. For McConaughey, who here rocks a beard and open-collared dress shirt, it’s his words that make people pay attention, not a flashy outfit or dramatic entrance. 

Likewise, in your own life, the same can be true. Just speak with confidence and conviction, and no matter how you look or what you’re wearing, people will listen. 💖

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Jim Carrey is a very cool person! Every time he’s smiling with charming look, His speech is also very motivating! Thanks for sharing with us,

Agreed! It’s hard to look away when Carrey’s on stage or on camera, for sure. (And thanks for reading! 😊)

Usually, I am not doing comments anyone but it’s interesting, I really feel better to hear this.keep it up.

Glad you found these speeches inspiring, and thanks for the kind words! 🙌

You really don’t need to change the world, you just need to master your own self, align your values, your personality, and your purpose to your vision. That’s the core of making for a better world.

Well said! 🙌

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Interview Questions

Comprehensive Interview Guide: 60+ Professions Explored in Detail

Answers to “Who Inspires You?” (5 Examples)

By Biron Clark

Published: November 15, 2023

In a job interview, employers don’t just want to know you can do the job; they want to know about your life and interests.

So they ask interview questions like, “Who inspires you in your life?” or “Who is your greatest inspiration?”

And if you struggle to answer or give a response they don’t like, it could cost you the job.

Keep reading for tips on how to answer, “Who inspires you?” with example responses, mistakes to avoid, and more.

How to Answer the “Who Inspires You?” Interview Question

First of all, this is an incredibly open-ended interview question.

And while there are no wrong responses… some answers are better than others.

You could answer that your mother or father is your greatest inspiration. And that would be an okay answer.

But I recommend you look beyond a personal or family connection when answering, and consider the specific job you’re interviewing for.

Because the next question you’ll be asked, assuming you don’t expand on it in the first place, is “why?”

What did your mother, father, college teacher , or other personal connection do that was so inspiring? Was it their work ethic? Leadership skills?

Again, any of those answers are correct, but your answer will stand out and resonate more with the interviewer if you go into detail and ideally, tailor your answer to the traits required in the position you’re discussing.

Here’s a good example of how to answer this interview question by matching your inspiration to the job.

Imagine you’re looking for a career with a non-profit organization whose purpose is to provide aid to the homeless, the sick, and the poor.

Claiming Mother Teresa as your greatest inspiration would be a sensible answer to the question.

She devoted most of her life to charitable work, helping the homeless, sick, and poor.

Or, if you were interviewing for a leadership position, you could use someone past or present who showed exemplary leadership as your inspiration.

Just be sure to pick someone you really admire because there’s a good chance your body language will give you away if you’re lying.

And yes, don’t be surprised if the recruiter or manager has some skill at reading body language.

The point is, your answer not only provides some insight into the person you aspire to be, but also highlights the type of behavioral patterns and attitudes you admire and respect.

And that will translate into the type of person you would be on the job.

Here’s another example of thinking about the job when answering “Who inspired you in your life?”

Imagine you’re interviewing for an accounting position. The soft skills you’ll need are:

• Problem-solving
• Strong communication skills, both written and oral
• Critical thinking
• Time management

You could use some famous accountants as your answer, perhaps someone like William Deloitte or William Cooper, the founders of Deloitte & Touche and Price Waterhouse Coopers respectively.

Or you could think outside the box and use as your inspiration someone who was or is well known for their critical thinking or problem-solving skills.

Of course, if you go this route, you need to clearly communicate your reasoning to your interviewer.

If you were to throw out Albert Einstein as your inspiration, that might not make sense to the person or people interviewing you because he’s a well-known physicist. But dig a little deeper and he’s also famous for being a problem solver and critical thinker, so you could talk about how he inspired you in those areas.

Throw an answer like that out and trust me, you’ll gain some serious credibility points.

As you can see, there’s no one “right” answer to this interview question. The key is to be able to explain why you choose the person and connect the dots between their story and your career and life goals.

Who Inspires You? Example Answers

Next, we’ll look at word-for-word who inspires you examples using people, past or present, who led a life that meshes with your career path and interests.

Example #1 for Who Inspires You: Mother Teresa

Someone who inspired me in my personal life and work is Mother Teresa. She dedicated her life to helping those less fortunate, and I’d like to achieve a similar story when I look back on my life. Also, I believe that her desire to help others made her a great leader, even though few would think of her that way. One of my favorite quotes by her is, “Do not go where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”

This sample answer would be excellent if interviewing for a position at a charitable organization or other socially conscious organization.

It’s also a good answer for any role utilizing soft skills like leadership, empathy, emotional intelligence, interpersonal skills, and more.

No matter what your religious beliefs are (and I would recommend you don’t address them in the job interview), using this example answer with the reasons above would work in your favor and help you land any leadership role in an organization that values helping others.

Example #2 for Who Inspires You: Albert Einstein

Albert Einstein has inspired me in my career. His theories and vision enabled some of the technology we take for granted today, like GPS, lasers, atomic clocks, and much more. He also struggled with and had to overcome self-doubt, like so many people do. The fact that even he faced self-doubt is inspiring and reminds me to be persistent and believe in myself.

Albert Einstein would be a great choice for the “Who inspires you” interview question for anyone seeking a position in a company that requires creativity. For example:

• Any kind of artist
• Authors/writers
• College art, drama, or music teachers
• Editors, print or video
• Fashion designer
• Industrial designer
• Landscape architects

Example #3 for Who Inspires You: Michael Jordan

I’ve been inspired by Michael Jordan. He was talented, but more importantly, he was willing to outwork the competition and focus intensely on his goals. He was relentless and never stopped pushing himself to improve. One excellent piece of advice he shared was to never forget the fundamentals. “The minute you get away from fundamentals, whether it’s proper technique, work ethic, or mental preparation, the bottom can fall out of your game, your schoolwork, your job, whatever you’re doing.”

This is an interview answer that you could use for virtually any type of job.

In the corporate world, there are fundamentals critical to your success. Each job position will have its own fundamentals, but Jordan’s advice is that whatever they are, keep at them.

He also didn’t let failure stop him, which you can also say was inspiring to you. Ironically, when he was in high school, he was disqualified from the varsity basketball team because he wasn’t tall enough or good enough.

What did he do? Well, he eventually grew but more importantly, he practiced until he was good enough.

All of the factors above make Michael Jordan an excellent choice for someone you find inspiring.

Note that you could also choose a more recent athlete such as Kobe Bryant if you prefer (who happened to have a similar mindset, competitiveness, and mental toughness to Michael Jordan).

Example #4 for Who Inspires You: William Deloitte

Since becoming an accountant , I’ve been inspired by William Deloitte, one of the fathers of accounting. I’m inspired by his innovation, leadership, and interpersonal skills. These traits allowed him to make powerful connections and accomplish a tremendous amount in his career. He was ambitious and aimed high, too, which are values that are important to me. He started his career at 15 and opened his own practice at 25. He went on to found one of the largest accounting firms in the world, so his story is a reminder to stay ambitious and motivated in life.

This is a good answer to “Who inspires you?” if interviewing for any position in accounting or bookkeeping.

Remember, it’s always a good idea to consider the job you’re discussing when you answer this interview question.

Example #5 for Who Inspires You: Your Father

My father is someone who inspired me throughout life and is the reason I got into the marketing industry. When he was 19, he started a small local marketing firm and grew it to the point of having 200 clients throughout the state. He recognized that building strong relationships is just as important as being competent in your work, and he became excellent at both through consistent effort. He was also an inspiration because nobody told him to go down the marketing route, and he didn’t study marketing in school. Instead, he read local newspapers, saw opportunities to help businesses market themselves better in the local community, and went door-to-door to get his first clients.

As you can see, it’s okay to say a personal connection or family member inspired you.

But if choosing friends, parents, or other relatives/personal connections, you need to be ready to show something exceptional they did and exactly how that was an inspiration in your life and career. Otherwise, choose someone else as your inspirational figure.

Now you have 5 examples to the question, “Who inspires you?”

I’ve mentioned a few times that there are no wrong answers to this interview question. But there are some mistakes you should avoid when giving your interview answer…

Mistakes to Avoid When Answering “Who Inspires You?”

The #1 mistake to avoid when saying who inspires you in an interview:

If there’s anything we’ve learned in the last several years, it’s that there are some topics and people who are completely polarizing. Many people are one hundred percent for or against something or someone.

Why does that matter?

Because you have no idea where the person who’s interviewing you stands on the subject. And if you voice a strong like or dislike contrary to theirs, that could count against you.

So it’s best to stay away from anyone or anything highly controversial or polarizing, such as most political figures or issues.

Further mistakes to avoid:

• If you do choose a famous person, make sure they really are someone you admire and respect. Otherwise you won’t sound convincing.
• Don’t give an answer that’s more than 60-90 seconds. Be selective in sharing why someone has inspired you and just choose a few key points to share. You don’t need to share every detail you’ve read and researched about this person, and if the interviewer wants to hear more, they’ll ask.
• Don’t ever answer without having a reason ready. If you choose your mother, father, a friend, or anyone related to you, be sure to have an appropriate reason.

8 Types of People You Can Say Inspired You

To help you gather more ideas for potential answers to “Who inspired you in your life?” here are some general types of people you can mention as your inspiration.

• Historical figures
• Mentors/coaches
• Noteworthy people in your community
• Parents, family, and friends

If you follow the steps and sample answers above, you’ll be ready to answer “Who inspires you?” in your next interview.

If you can’t think of someone to name and the examples above don’t work for you, don’t panic.

Google is your friend for coming up with more answers and people you find inspiring.

If you’re not sure what soft skills and traits are most important for the position your interview is for, you can do a search on something like “soft skills needed for…” and just fill in either the field or role you’re hoping to get hired for.

Also, look at the job description before your interview. Notice which skills and traits are mentioned first and/or most often.

Then, you can try searching for someone motivational that matches the soft skills required for the job. Try something like a search for “examples of people with a good work ethic.”

This preparation will help you wow the interviewer so you can land the job.

Related interview questions:

• What do you like to do for fun?
• How would you describe yourself?
• Tell me about a time you failed?

About the Author

Read more articles by Biron Clark

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Someone Who Inspires Me — My Dad is My inspiration: a Story from My Life

My Dad is My Inspiration: a Story from My Life

• Categories: Father Someone Who Inspires Me

About this sample

Words: 490 |

Updated: 28 November, 2023

Words: 490 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Table of contents

My dad is my inspiration, works cited, video version.

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• Bandura, A. (1997). Self-efficacy: The exercise of control. W. H. Freeman and Company.
• Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2008). Self-determination theory: A macrotheory of human motivation, development, and health. Canadian Psychology/Psychologie Canadienne, 49(3), 182-185.
• Gilovich, T., Medvec, V. H., & Savitsky, K. (2000). The spotlight effect in social judgment: An egocentric bias in estimates of the salience of one's own actions and appearance. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 78(2), 211-222.
• Mussen, P. H., Conger, J. J., & Kagan, J. (2016). Child development and personality (8th ed.). Harper & Row.
• Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000). The "what" and "why" of goal pursuits: Human needs and the self-determination of behavior. Psychological Inquiry, 11(4), 227-268.
• Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Random House.
• Eccles, J. S., & Wigfield, A. (2002). Motivational beliefs, values, and goals. Annual Review of Psychology, 53(1), 109-132.
• Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes. Harvard University Press.

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How To Answer “Who Inspires You?”(+ Example Answers)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

Who inspires you? It’s an interview question that feels out of place. After all, why would the hiring manager care? It has nothing to do with your ability to do the job, right?

Well, the hiring manager does have a reason for asking the “Who inspired you?” interview question. If you’re wondering what that is and how you can craft a stellar answer, here’s what you need to know.

What Is Inspiration?

First, let’s take a second to talk about what inspiration is in the first place. Typically, you can’t properly discuss who inspired you if you don’t know what it entails.

According to the Cambridge Dictionary , inspiration – in this context – is “someone or something that gives you ideas for doing something.” In the end, that’s a pretty accurate synopsis.

Inspiration of this type involves getting a strong sense of direction or desire to take action based on the efforts, perspectives, or positions of another. Essentially, you’re motivated to excel or take a particular path because of something another person stands for or achieved.

Some inspiration is incidental in that the person you admire wasn’t aiming to give you a particular idea about the direction of your life. However, some is intentional. For example, parents strive to inspire their children to succeed. Teachers want to inspire students, and mentors feel the same about mentees.

Being able to discuss your sources of inspiration openly works in your favor. It helps you showcase your intrinsic motivations for excelling, allowing you to highlight why you find a particular career path meaningful. It can also highlight what may keep you pressing forward during challenging times, as your motivation comes from deep within.

So, is there a right kind of people to look up to if you want to answer this question successfully? Well, yes and no. Technically anyone could do the trick if you can demonstrate how they’re inspiring you can benefit the hiring manager. However, some people are easier to sell in that context than others.

Generally, it’s better to stick with broadly respected or clearly respectable figures. Anyone controversial may work against you, even if your reasons are valid and don’t have anything to do with the potentially divisive points.

Why Does the Hiring Manager Ask This Question?

Generally speaking, hiring managers ask the “Who inspires you?” interview question to learn more about your motivations for pursuing various paths. It can also give them clues regarding why you have specific traits, depending on the situation and how you present it.

In many cases, when you choose people to look up to, that also speaks a bit about your values. Often, we admire those who walk paths we respect, so who you discuss can give the hiring manager some surprising insights about what you view as important.

Finally, the person you select can give the hiring manager ideas about your overall personality . Research shows that people are drawn to individuals they feel are similar to themselves. Since that’s the case, the hiring manager may assume you have a similar personality to the person.

Common Mistakes When Answering This Question

While you might assume that there isn’t a wrong way to answer this question, that isn’t technically true. One of the biggest mistakes is choosing a controversial or divisive figure. While you might admire them, the hiring manager may feel incredibly differently.

Generally speaking, it’s best to stay away from current political figures, religious icons, and many entertainers. People often have strong, gut reactions to people in those arenas, which may not work in your favor. However, political, religious, or entertainment-oriented jobs can be an exception.

Another big misstep is not having examples to highlight why the person inspires you. Simply listing off traits isn’t going to make a strong answer. Instead, you need to describe a moment where what the person brings to the table is demonstrated, making it easier to see why the impact was so great.

You also want to avoid talking about multiple people. Regardless of whether they’re inspiring, your answer becomes unfocused. As a result, it’s better to concentrate on one person instead of several.

Finally, never say you inspire yourself. Even if you’ve had an incredibly challenging journey, it makes you seem self-centered, and that’s never good.

Just remember, this is just one question the hiring manager could ask you in your interview! That’s why we created an amazing free cheat sheet that will give you word-for-word answers for some of the toughest interview questions you are going to face in your upcoming interview.

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Tips for Answering This Question

Creating a great answer to the “Who inspired you?” interview question might seem tricky, but you can do it if you use the right approach. If you have no idea where to start, these three tips can help.

1. Start with Some Reflection

Usually, you need to look inward if you’re going to pick someone who inspires you. Consider the various people you’ve encountered in your life, particularly those that you respect and admire. As you come up with options, see if you can identify moments that capture why they had an impact.

If you’re having trouble finding one that affected your life in a way you want to discuss during a job interview, turn your attention to a new direction. Think about noteworthy or historical public figures that may fit the bill.

With the latter approach, you do want to be wary of clichés. While some figures are undoubtedly inspiring, they may be part of answers the hiring manager has heard before. Since you want your answer to stand out, consider figures who aren’t likely go-to options for people.

2. Come Up with a Specific Example

As mentioned above, simply listing positive traits people possess and saying that’s why you find them inspiring isn’t going to work. Instead, you need to make the answer a quality story by discussing an example that highlights why you find them inspirational.

Choose a moment you were either involved in or directly observed for people you know personally. For public figures where there wasn’t any interaction, focus on moments where they overcame relevant challenges on a path toward success.

3. Keep the Answer Brief

When you admire someone, you might feel you could happily talk about them for hours. The problem is, you need to keep your interview moving forward.

Since that’s the case, keep your answer reasonably short. Ideally, you should be able to wrap up your response in less than two minutes. In some cases, even a minute is fine, depending on the story you choose to showcase why you find them inspiring.

If you’re concerned about the length, practice will help you keep it under control. Decide what you want to cover, and then time yourself. If you’re in the right zone, repeat the process until you’ve got the content and timing down. If you’re not, think about what you can remove to get it under the two-minute threshold.

How to Answer the Interview Question “Who Inspired You?”

Now comes the moment you’ve been waiting for: how to answer the “Who inspires you?” interview question.

So, how do you get on the right track, not just with crafting your response but picking a great person to discuss? Well, you’ll want to start with the Tailoring Method .

The Tailoring Method teaches you to focus on relevancy. It’s a strategy based on addressing the hiring manager’s needs, ensuring your answer relates to their priorities and impresses.

After that, it’s mainly about refinement. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to help you out, followed by some example answers:

Step-by-Step Guide

Making sure your answer is on-point isn’t overly challenging. Mainly, you want to touch on critical details using a strategic approach. Here’s how to do it.

1. Choose the Example

When you begin your answer, the first sentence should always include the person’s name and the assertion that you find them inspiring. After that, it’s time to talk about why.

Ideally, you want an anecdote that showcases the skills and traits you want to emulate. That will make your connection to them clearer and ensures your answer is engaging.

2. Outline the Story

Once you know which example you want to share, break it down into four major components by answering specific questions. First, what prompted the moment to occur? Second, what happened in that moment? Third, why was that moment meaningful to you? Fourth, how did that put you on the path you’re walking now or the one you’d like to walk?

If you cover those bases, you’re providing enough information. Ideally, you want to limit yourself to just a couple of sentences for each point. That way, your answer is thorough but concise

3. Practice (and Cut) for Time

As mentioned above, keep your answer under two minutes whenever possible. With your story outline created, craft a response that follows the narrative path. If you want, record your response. That way, you have the length of the answer and a recording you can review if you need to continue practicing or cut content.

Continue rehearsing and refining until the timing is right. Then, practice that answer until it sticks.

Who Inspires You? Example Answers

Now that you know how to answer the “Who inspired you?” interview question, it’s time for some examples. Here is a look at how you can approach the question, using different types of people for each sample.

1. Family Member

EXAMPLE ANSWER:

My older sister is easily my biggest inspiration. When she was a high school student, she was in an accident that left her severely injured, with years of recovery ahead of her. While many people would let that get them down or use it as an excuse to not move their life forward, she didn’t.

She was diligent about her physical therapy and returned to her studies as soon as she was cleared. In the end, she didn’t just manage to recover from her injury; she graduated from high school with honors and landed an academic scholarship for her top-choice college. That level of commitment continues to inspire me to this day.

2. Historical Figure

One person I greatly admire is Charles Darwin. His contributions to modern biology are, of course, inspiring. However, he also endured harsh conditions during his five-year voyage on the HMS Beagle. Additionally, while we acknowledge the validity of his initial steps into evolution theory, he was considered a heretic during his day.

Ultimately, his bravery, dedication, and conviction are all admirable in my book. Couple that with his assertion that evidence – not blind belief – should be a guiding force, I’m left nothing short of inspired.

My greatest inspiration is Ms. Jane Doe, a former colleague who ultimately showed me that my career could be far more than I initially expected. While I was originally hired into an administrative role in a tech department, Ms. Doe quickly became my advocate. She requested I assist on projects involving more technical work, something my manager supported.

Ms. Doe continued to expand my skill set, because she felt I had potential. As time passed, I developed a passion for the work, particularly handling site installations. My experience led me to return to college and get my degree, allowing me to officially enter the field that Ms. Doe propelled me toward.

Putting It All Together

At this point, you should have a solid idea of how to answer the “Who inspires you?” interview question. Use the tips above to your advantage, ensuring you can craft an outstanding answer whenever the need arises.

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Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

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About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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How to Write an Effective Persuasive Speech Outline: 5 Key Elements

• The Speaker Lab
• April 14, 2024

Table of Contents

If you’re a speaker, you are probably well familiar with the path from initial speech drafts to the day you actually present. By its nature, speech delivery is a journey filled with obstacles, yet it’s simultaneously an adventure in persuasion. With a well-crafted persuasive speech outline , you can do more than just present facts and figures to your audience. You can weave them into a narrative that captivates, convinces, and converts.

A meticulously planned persuasive speech outline isn’t just helpful; it’s essential. Crafting this blueprint carefully lets you deliver your message more effectively, making sure each point lands with the impact you’re aiming for. To help you achieve this impact, we have some tips and tricks for you to try.

Writing an Effective Persuasive Speech Outline

When we talk about persuasive speeches , we’re diving into the art of convincing others to see things from a certain point of view. Your speech is your one shot to grab attention, build your case, and inspire action. Your secret weapon for achieving this is your speech outline. In your speech outline, you want to touch on several key elements.

• Pick your fight: Start by zeroing in on what you really want to change or influence with this speech.
• Support your claim with evidence: Identify those key points that back up your stance to appeal to your audience’s rational side .
• The emotional hook: Weave in stories or facts that hit home emotionally .
• Avoid the kitchen sink approach: Don’t throw everything at them hoping something sticks. Be selective and strategic with the info you share.
• Nail that closer: Your conclusion isn’t just goodbye; it’s where you charge your audience with a call to action.

These elements form the backbone of your persuasive speech. By including these in your talk’s outline, you can’t go wrong.

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Establishing Your Main Objective and Structuring Your Points

Now that you have a general idea of what goes into a persuasive speech outline, let’s break a couple of these pieces down and look at them a little more closely.

Identifying the Purpose of Your Persuasive Speech

When writing your speech, you first need to nail down why you’re doing this in the first place. In other words, identify your main objective. After all, choosing to speak up isn’t merely about the desire to express oneself; it’s deeply rooted in understanding the effect you hope your discourse will unleash. Do you hope to sway opinions towards the belief that animal experimentation is a relic of the past? Or perhaps persuade them that social media does more good than harm? Whatever your cause, identifying your main objective will help keep you on track and avoid rambling.

Organizing Key Points for Maximum Impact

Once you’ve determined what you want to persuade your audience of, you can start building your argument. Specifically, you can determine your key points. Key points support your position on a topic, proving to your audience that you have actual reasons for taking your position.

To pack the most punch, arrange these key points in a logical order. Consider how you might connect your key points. Are there some that can be grouped together? The flow of your argument matters just as much as the argument itself, and a disjointed argument won’t do anyone any favors. As you organize your key points, consider these tips:

• Lead with strength, but don’t throw all your cards out at once.
• Build upon each point; important transitions between them can make or break audience engagement.
• Finish strong by tying back everything to the emotional chord you struck at the beginning.

Nailing these steps will ensure that when you speak, your message doesn’t just echo—it resonates.

Selecting Compelling Topics for Your Persuasive Speeches

Let’s face it, picking the right topic for your persuasive speech outline is half the battle. But what makes a topic not just good, but great? First off, it needs to spark interest, both yours and your audience’s. If you’re not fired up about it, chances are they won’t be either. Second, make sure the topic is something relevant. It should resonate with your listeners’ experiences or touch on their concerns and aspirations. Lastly, your topic has to be something you can research and back up with solid facts and expert opinions.

For ideas to get you started, check out a variety of speech topics here .

Enhancing Persuasion Through Rhetorical Appeals

The art of persuasion is something that’s been studied since ancient Greece. Back then, Greek philosopher Aristotle came up with the three rhetorical appeals . Each one described a different way of convincing your audience of your position. Together, these appeals help you form a rock-strong argument, making them worth learning.

Building Credibility with Ethos

To get people on your side, you first need to win their trust. That’s where ethos comes into play. Demonstrating to your listeners that you’re both trustworthy and deserving of their attention hinges on transparency about your qualifications, genuine self, and the wisdom gained from occasional setbacks. Letting folks know why they should listen can make all the difference.

Connecting with the Audience Through Pathos

At some point, we’ve all been moved by a story or an ad because it hit right in the feels. That sort of emotional appeal is called pathos , and it’s powerful stuff. If you want people really invested in what you’re saying, then be sure to use this appeal in your presentation. To harness the power of pathos, try telling a story , especially one your audience can relate to. The key is authenticity—sharing true experiences resonates more than anything fabricated ever could.

Strengthening Arguments with Logos

Last but not least, we have logos, our logical appeal. Oftentimes, this logical appeal entails facts and data points, which are used to back up what you’re selling, turning skeptics into believers. But just because you’re listing facts and figures doesn’t mean this part has to be boring. To keep your audience engaged, craft persuasive narratives and then ground them in robust proof. Giving your story to go with your numbers doesn’t just help keep them engaged, it also helps the information stick.

The Importance of Supporting Evidence and Counterarguments

In your persuasive speech outline, you need to note compelling evidence for each key point. In addition, you’ll want to address opposing views.

Gathering and Presenting Convincing Evidence

No matter how trustworthy you seem, or how compelling your stories are, most people need tangible proof. That’s where concrete evidence steps into the spotlight. To fortify your argument and boost its believability, sprinkle in a mix of hard data, customer stories, numerical evidence, and endorsements from authorities. To illustrate this data for your audience, you may find it helpful to create a slideshow . Supporting every assertion with research is an essential part of any persuasive speech. Without it, arguments inevitably sound flimsy and unconvincing.

Addressing Opposing Views Effectively

Although it may seem counterintuitive, address counter-arguments head-on in your persuasive speech outline. It might feel like walking into enemy territory but it actually strengthens your own argument. By acknowledging opposing views, you’re showing that not only do you know what they are, but also that they don’t scare you.

When you address these counter-arguments, demonstrate your understanding. Again, this is where your good research skills are going to come in handy. Present the facts, and ditch biased explanations. In other words, don’t mock or belittle the other side’s viewpoint or you’ll undermine your own trustworthiness. Instead, explain opposing viewpoints with neutrality.

Adopting this strategy not only neutralizes possible objections but also enhances your stance. Plus, this makes for an engaging dialogue between both sides of any debate, which keeps audience members hooked from start to finish.

In essence, tackling counter-arguments is less about winning over naysayers and more about enriching discussions around hot-button issues. At its core, persuasion isn’t just convincing folks; it’s sparking conversations worth having.

Crafting a Captivating Introduction and Conclusion

Now that you have the body of your persuasive speech outline, it’s time to talk beginning and end. To really hit your message home, you want to grab your audience’s attention at the beginning and call them to action at the end.

Creating an Engaging Hook to Capture Attention

The opening of your speech is where you need a good first impression. To hook your audience, consider starting with an intriguing question, a surprising fact, or even a short story related to your topic. Whatever route you choose, keep it interesting and concise, so that you can transition into the rest of your persuasive speech outline.

Concluding with a Strong Call to Action

Crafting strong conclusions is about leaving your readers feeling pumped and ready to jump into action. After all, if you’ve argued convincingly enough, your audience should be ready to act. To channel this energy, urge listeners towards specific actions. Here are some strategies:

• Suggest clear next steps: Don’t leave your audience hanging wondering what’s next. Give them concrete steps they can take immediately after reading.
• Create urgency: Why wait? Let folks know why now is the perfect time to act.
• Show benefits: Paint vivid pictures of how taking action will positively impact their lives or solve their problems.

With that captivating hook and a decisive call-to-action, you are one step closer to presenting an unforgettable speech.

Utilizing Monroe’s Motivated Sequence for Persuasive Structure

As you finish off your persuasive speech outline, you may be wondering how best to structure your speech. If that’s you, then Purdue University professor Alan H. Monroe has some answers. In his book “Monroe’s Principles of Speech,” the professor outlines Monroe’s Motivated Sequence, the best structure for persuasive speeches. Each step is broken down below.

Attention: Grabbing the Audience’s Focus

You’ve got something important to say. But first, you need them to listen. Start with a bang. Throwing out a shocking truth, posing a thought-provoking query, or sharing an enthralling tale could work magic in grabbing their attention. It’s all about making heads turn and ears perk up.

Need: Highlighting the Issue at Hand

Now that they’re listening, show them there’s a gaping hole in their lives that only your message can fill. Paint a vivid picture of the problem your speech addresses.

Satisfaction: Proposing a Solution

This is where you come in as the hero with a plan. Introduce your solution clearly and convincingly. How does it patch things up? Why does it outshine merely applying quick fixes to deep-rooted issues? Give your audience hope.

Visualization: Helping the Audience Visualize Benefits

Show them life on the other side of adopting your idea or product—brighter, easier, better. Use vivid imagery and relatable scenarios so they can see themselves reaping those benefits firsthand.

Action: Encouraging Audience Action

Last step: nudge them from “maybe” to “yes.” Make this part irresistible by being clear about what action they should take next—and why now’s the time to act. Whether signing up, voting, or changing behavior, make sure they know how easy taking that first step can be.

Learn more about Monroe’s Motivated Sequence here .

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Overcoming Public Speaking Fears for Effective Delivery

Let’s face it, the thought of public speaking can turn even the most confident folks into a bundle of nerves. But hey, you’ve got this. Dive into these expert strategies and you’ll find yourself delivering speeches like a seasoned orator in no time.

Techniques to Build Confidence in Public Speaking

If you’re feeling nervous on the big day, these three techniques are perfect for you. Take a look!

• Breathe: Deep breathing is your secret weapon against those pesky nerves. It tells your brain that everything is going to be okay.
• Pose like a superhero: Stand tall and strike a power pose before you go on stage. This isn’t just fun; science backs it up as a confidence booster .
• Kick perfectionism to the curb: Aim for connection with your audience, not perfection. Mistakes make you human and more relatable.

The goal here is to calm yourself enough to be able to deliver your persuasive speech outline with confidence. Even if you still feel a little nervous, you can still present an awesome speech. You just don’t want those nerves running the show.

Practicing Your Speech for Perfect Execution

If you know that you tend to get nervous when public speaking, then you don’t want to be running through you speech for the first time on the big day. Instead, practice beforehand using these techniques.

• The mirror is your friend: Practice in front of a mirror to catch any odd gestures or facial expressions.
• Vary your voice: As you deliver your speech, let your voice rise and fall to match what you’re sharing. Avoid speaking in a monotone.
• Say no to memorization: Rather than memorizing every word, learn key points by heart. You want to sound natural out there.

Remembering these steps won’t just help you tackle public speaking fear, but will also polish those all-important public speaking skills .

Once you’ve honed the skills you need to write a persuasive speech outline, the only thing left to do is to get out there and practice them. So take the rhetorical appeals—ethos, logos, and pathos—and practice weaving each element into your speech. Or take Monroe’s Motivated Sequence and work on structuring your outline accordingly.

Prepare well and when you hit the stage, you have not just a well-prepared persuasive speech outline, but also the power to alter perspectives, challenge the status quo, or even change lives.

• Last Updated: April 11, 2024

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How To Answer “Who Inspires You?” (Examples Included)

September 15, 2022 by Hannah Morgan

“Who inspires you?” is a fairly broad interview question that gives you a lot of wiggle room with your answer. There are so many fascinating and inspirational people out there, so who do you choose?

This resource will help you come up with a great answer when picking your biggest inspiration, so you can use this question as an opportunity to impress.

Table of contents

Why interviewers ask “who inspires you, how to answer this question, what you shouldn’t say in your answer, best example answers.

Contrary to what some people think, job interviews aren’t always tough conversations that exclusively focus on the job at hand. While every question is relevant, they don’t always appear to be at face value. “Who inspires you?” is an example of this. It’s an open-ended question that cleverly provides more insight into who you are as a person.

The main reason why interviewers ask this question is that it sheds light on your motivations. Hiring managers want to know why you pursued this opportunity and whether or not it’s something you’ll continue to be inspired by moving forward. Money is always a significant factor in your job search, but companies want people who are there for more than just monetary gains. They want people who are naturally motivated to succeed and boost the organization’s bottom line.

When you talk about who inspires you, you’re indirectly telling the interviewer what paths you respect and values you hold. Most people gain inspiration from the people they respect most. It’s who you aspire to be like one day.

Your response is an excellent opportunity to show the interviewer who you are in a more creative way than your typical job interview answers. How you answer this question says a lot about you and could help your chances of getting hired.

“Who inspires you?” is a question that also provides more practical insight. In addition to telling them more about your values, it shows off your personality and provides a glimpse of how you can connect and communicate with others. It may even lead to a conversation about soft skills that are relevant to the job. Ultimately, this question tells the interview important personality details that no resume could convey.

“Who inspires you and why?” is a question that requires some thought to answer effectively, but it’s not as challenging as you think. Everyone’s response is different, and you should focus on talking about people who truly matter to you.

However, you can use a few tricks to ensure that you’re providing an effective answer that will leave a great impression.

1. Pick Someone with a Personal Connection

The first tip is to choose someone you have a genuine personal connection with. You don’t have to be super close or even know them personally. But it pays to talk about someone who truly inspires you and your professional career.

Avoid picking people you think the interviewer wants you to talk about in your answer. For example, avoid the obvious attempt at flattery, such as choosing the company’s CEO. Unless they genuinely inspire you, avoid those cliches.

It’s easier to talk about someone that actually means something to you. There’s a good chance that you have strong feelings about what that person has accomplished. You’ll sound more genuine if you have a solid connection to them.

There are many types of people you can talk about with this response. It could be a family member or close friend. Alternatively, you can choose historical figures, industry leaders, authors, or fictional characters. The sky’s the limit here, so think about the biggest inspirations in your professional career.

2. Keep Your Answer Relevant

“Who inspires you?” is a question that is best answered by choosing someone relevant to the job. Sure, you can select a person that has nothing to do with your industry. But that may not provide the insight that the interviewer is looking to get.

The best thing you can do is choose someone related to your field. They should have some connection to your industry, the company you’re applying for, or the position you’re trying to land. Any thread of similarity is something you can lean on when formulating your response.

For example, you can talk about an industry leader. Influencers or thought leaders in your industry are well-known and likely have exciting backstories to draw inspiration. The same goes for innovators within your field. 

You can also look towards historical figures that played a part in your industry becoming what it is today. Anyone with relevance to your industry is a great way to go.

3. Dig Deeper

When you’re explaining who inspires you and why, try not to lean heavily on the obvious traits of the person you’re discussing. For example, saying that the thing that inspires you most about an inventor is that they created a product isn’t exactly groundbreaking.

Go further.

Think about what makes this person so inspiring and what you connect with personally. Think about what this individual has done for you, your industry, and society as a whole.

One great technique is to explain what signature behaviors or traits about that person you want to emulate. Talk about the characteristics that inspire you and how you want to apply them in your professional career. 

Put thought into this response and avoid the obvious cliches. This will help you create a captivating answer that the interviewer hasn’t already heard many times before.

4. Keep It Brief

At most, your response should be around a minute to a minute and a half.

“Who inspires you?” is an interview question that has the potential to draw out long, rambling answers. You probably have many strong feelings about the person you’re talking about, but that doesn’t mean you should talk about them non-stop. Keep your answer relatively concise.

Hit all your main points – state who inspires you, explain why, and move on. Long answers can seem disjointed. Not only that, they’re difficult for you to remember.

A short answer that’s well-thought-out is more likely to leave an impact.

5. Practice

Our last tip is to practice as much as you can. 

That doesn’t mean you should type out a scripted response and memorize it verbatim. That would have the opposite effect you want. Over-rehearsed answers come off as inauthentic.

Instead, decide why the person you’re highlighting inspires you, jot down a few key points, and know the basic structure of your answer. Practice responding in many different ways. The goal is to be confident in your words, not recite a scripted answer.

While you have a lot of freedom to answer this question how you want, there are a few things you want to avoid. The following mistakes could hurt your chances, so keep them in mind when crafting your response.

Typical Family Answers

Most people have nothing but loving things to say about their parents or close family members. But unless you have a compelling or unique reason to talk about them, it’s best to avoid typical responses regarding your family. 

Interviewers are more interested in hearing about individuals who inspire your professional pursuits. You can talk about family if their story is relevant to your field. But talking about how much you love someone in your family or how their support made a difference doesn’t provide the insight interviewers are looking for.

Political or Religious Figureheads

Most workplaces have unspoken rules about discussing politics, religion, and other controversial topics. Your interview should be no different.

While hiring managers can’t discriminate against you, subconscious biases can come into play. The last thing you want to do is talk about a controversial figure that the interviewer doesn’t like. It automatically puts a negative cloud over the interview experience and creates biases that are difficult to shake.

It’s better to steer clear of anyone divisive or remotely controversial when talking about who inspires you.

Example-Free Responses

This mistake happens more frequently than it should! You might have people in mind who inspire you, but unless you can talk about why they inspire you, the answer is incomplete!

Here’s where adequate preparation comes in handy. Think about why those individuals inspire you and what traits you want to emulate in the workplace. “Who inspires you?” is an interview question that should always warrant an example during your answer.

Talking About Multiple People

You probably have many people you admire or view as a source of inspiration, but try limiting your response to just one.

Talking about several individuals can make your answer seem disorganized. Covering multiple people will likely make your response a bit too lengthy.

Self-Absorbed Answers

Finally, please don’t go with the “I inspire myself” response. That might sound groundbreaking to you, but it’s nothing but self-centered and a bit awkward to everyone else.

It can paint you negatively, making the interviewer think you’re arrogant or not a team player. You’ll have other opportunities to talk about how great you are, but this question is not it.

“Who inspires you?” is a question that offers plenty of room for creative thinking. Give it ample thought and use our tips above to mold a perfectly crafted response. To give you some inspiration about talking about who inspires you, here are a few stellar examples.

The first example is for a job-seeker looking to get into the accounting field. The person they choose to talk about is a well-known figure in the accounting world. He’s the namesake for a large, multinational accounting firm. 

But more importantly, the inspirational figurehead is someone who exemplifies the necessary skills and character traits to succeed in accounting. It’s a fine example of an applicant knowing their stuff and doing their research.

“One of my biggest inspirations is William Deloitte, who is often considered the grandfather of accounting.’ There are many things about Deloitte’s life that inspire me. He started his career at 15, opened his own accounting practice at 25, and eventually founded one of the largest firms in the world that continues to operate today!

He was incredibly motivated and continually aimed high. He never let obstacles get in his way, a trait I aspire to have. Deloitte also had impressive interpersonal skills, a natural inclination for leadership, and an eye for innovation.

All those characteristics made him one of the most prominent names in accounting. His story constantly reminds me to be ambitious and strive for excellence in this field.”

In our second example, the applicant isn’t talking about a well-known figure. Instead, they’re choosing to highlight a teacher who significantly impacted their life. They’re interviewing for a journalist position, and this teacher helped hone their skills while cementing unteachable traits.

This response works well because the applicant has a genuine connection to the individual. They discuss how that person made a difference and connect it all back to the position they’re trying to get.

“There are many people who inspire me in my career, but I believe that my senior-year English teacher, Mr. Smith, is the greatest inspiration in my life. Before Mr. Smith’s class, I was relatively indifferent to journalism. But after only a few weeks in his class, I discovered the power of words.

He pushed me outside my comfort zone, encouraging me to write about life experiences. Mr. Smith inspired us to write about challenging topics, teaching us to stand behind our words while using them to connect with readers.

Mr. Smith came in every day with an evident passion for writing. He did more than have us complete simple worksheets or fluff essays. His assignments were impactful, and I continue to use his lessons to ensure that every piece I write is authentic.

I admire his dedication to the craft, and I hope my words can inspire others as much as he inspired me.”

Our last example is about a difficult subject to create an answer for: A family member. Earlier, we mentioned that providing simple responses about a family member is not wise. But here’s an example of when you can talk about someone close to you while still keeping it relevant and thoughtful.

The applicant is trying to get a sales job and decides to talk about their father. While their father works in a slightly different field, they bring up relevant traits that matter to the position they’re trying to get.

“My biggest inspiration is my father. Not only has he inspired me throughout my life, but there are so many details about his career that I find aspirational.

He started in marketing at the age of 19. In just a few short years, he established a small, local firm. It continued to grow until he had a client portfolio that was 250-strong throughout the state.

My father taught me that building solid relationships with clients was paramount. He always stressed that communication and maintaining a professional relationship with clients were just as important as competence in your work.

For years, I watched him speak to clients as if they were old pals, and they had great respect for him. I hope to take that same dedication to customer satisfaction in my career, building a loyal customer list that sticks around for years to come.”

“Who inspires you?” is an interview question that you should prepare for like any other. It doesn’t matter if it seems less serious than others, because interviewers will pay close attention to your answer.

Pick someone relevant, find a unique angle and practice. If you follow these steps, your answer will be just what the interviewer was looking for!

Hannah Morgan speaks and writes about job search and career strategies. She founded CareerSherpa.net to educate professionals on how to maneuver through today’s job search process. Hannah was nominated as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search and Careers and is a regular contributor to US News & World Report. She has been quoted by media outlets, including  Forbes, USA Today, Money Magazine, Huffington Post, as well as many other publications. She is also author of The Infographic Resume and co-author of Social Networking for Business Success .

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Who Inspires You? Sample Interview Answers

Doesn’t matter if we admit it or not, each of us has some role models. People we look up to, people who inspire us, people we’d like to emulate with our life journey. It can be our parents, friends, famous singers and artists, or scientists, activists, or entrepreneurs who put the dent to the universe. People who left their mark on this Earth.

Who really inspires us, however, and who we should refer to while interviewing for a job , in not necessarily always the same person. But it’s more about our reasoning and explanation than about a particular name we mention in the interview. Let’s have a look at 7 sample answers to this interesting interview question, which will work well for any of the following variations of the question:

• Mention one person who has inspired you and why.
• Who is your inspiration on life?

7 sample answers to “Who inspires you” interview question

• My mother is my greatest inspiration. She faced a lot of adversity in her life, and had to raise three children as a single mother. She worked extremely hard to provide for us, but I rarely saw her complain about her fate . What I really admire is her enthusiasm for life, and an ability to adapt quickly to changing conditions. I am extremely grateful for being her child, and I cannot thank her enough for everything. Maybe, by following her example in both my personal and professional life, I can pay back what she did for me. At least that’s what I aspire to.
• I am inspired by people who enjoy leaving their comfort zone , and do not mind venturing into the unknown. Be it the famous climbers and athletes I read about in books, or entrepreneurs or scientists who revolutionized the way is which the world functions today. I would also love to leave my mark in this world , and believe that working for your organization, trying to manufacture new ways of distributing renewable green energy to households, I can have such an impact.
• Mother Theresa is my great role model, the one person who has inspired me the most. I always felt the calling to help the sick and poor . Today we have more problems and inequality in the world than ever. Working for your non-profit organization, trying to help homeless people and people on the fringe of society to get back on track, I believe I can follow my calling. And I will always carry a small picture of Mother Theresa in my breast pocket, to motivate me to continue trying, even if the results aren’t good, or if I struggle with motivation.

* Do not forget to check also: Answers to 15 most common interview questions .

• Every person who tries to live in harmony with themselves, other people, and the environment, inspires me. Most people spend their time rushing somewhere, pursuing an illusion of happiness. That’s not the path I’d like to follow. I’m not in for petty corporate wars and daily conflicts with my colleagues, or for trying to make an impression on people around me. No, that’s not my journey. I prefer cooperation to competition , I want to follow healthy and balanced lifestyle, and bring some value to the lives of people around me. And I am lucky enough to have around me few people who are on the same journey, and they are my daily inspiration.
• To be honest, instead of looking for role models, I try to become one . I would love to be an inspiration for people around me, for people in work. How do I want to do it? I want to try my best in job each day , be attentive to the needs of my colleagues, enjoy my time in work, bring some positive energy to the office. And I constantly work on my skills and knowledge, learning new things and languages. I am sure that if my subordinates see such an example, it will be inspiring for them.
• I am mostly inspired by people who overcame extreme adversity . People who crossed Siberia while escaping from labor camps for war prisoners, sailors who managed to survive without food for a month or more when shipwrecked on the ocean, or people who pursued innovative ideas that others condemned, and often suffered imprisonment or even dead as a result of their beliefs. Luckily I do not find myself in their shoes, but I still have my personal battles and personal demons I try to conquer. People who overcame much harder obstacles are my inspiration, and they motivate me to continue trying to win in my small daily battles.
• Speaking honestly, you inspire me . You are such a young woman, and you already work as an HR director in a big company. I’d love to learn more about your journey–where you studied, what results you achieved in your former jobs, how you managed to progress so quickly in your professional career. Maybe if we become colleagues I will get a chance to learn more about your way. But hats down really and you are definitely an inspiration for me.

Try to connect your answer with your new job

When you define qualities of a person who inspires you, you can try to connect these qualities with your new job . Look at sample answer no. 2, or at sample answer no. 3, as a great example of this technique. Job applicant talks about Mother Theresa (a famous person, each hiring manager will know what she did in her life), and immediately bridges it with their duties in the job–helping homeless people.

We typically look up to certain qualities, or achievements of a person–that’s their identity in our eyes. If you can, try to pick someone who would do a great job in your new employment, or at least someone who has the right strengths and personal traits for the type of work. You want to emulate their qualities, and hence you will also do such a great job.

* Special Tip: “ Who inspires you?” isn’t the only difficult question you will face while interviewing for any decent job. You will face questions about prioritization, dealing with pressure, dealing with ambiguity , and other situations that may happen in the workplace. If you want to make sure that you stand out with your answers and outclass your competitors, have a look at our Interview Success Package . Up to 10 premium answers to 31 tricky scenario based questions (+ more) will make your life much easier in the interviews. Thank you for checking it out!

Applying for leadership roles, you can try to be an inspiration for others

When you apply for a managerial or executive position, or for any other leadership role in an organization, you can try the approach from sample answer no. 5. Instead of looking for role models, you want to become one for your colleagues.

If you opt for this answer, however, you should clearly define what you want to do to inspire other people . In an ideal case you should talk about work related things–how you want to approach your job, what attitude you want to have to your colleagues, and similar. You can be confident, but you should not sound cocky . Present them your ideas, and a humble desire to be the role model for your subordinates.

* May also interest you: How to dress for an interview? 5 things to consider when choosing clothes to wear.

Saying that your interviewer inspires you is a risky approach, but it can do wonders in some cases

Let’s face the reality of today’s economy. People strive for recognition, but often they do not get it. Some people work hard and overtime and do whatever they can for their company, just to impress their superiors, to hear some words of praise from their mouth. But their superiors don’t understand it, or are too consumed in their own ego to praise anyone else in the company.

Such a person can easily lead the interview with you . Manager who strives for recognition of their efforts and achievement, but does not get any . If you praise such a person in an interview, if you call them your role model, your inspiration, it can have a huge impact on them, and on the way in which they perceive you.

You may immediately become their favorite job applicant , and they may even feel obliged to pay you back the favor somehow–perhaps letting you progress to the next rounds of interviews. At the end of the day, even the most skilled recruiters and managers are human beings. They have their emotions, desires and dreams . If you manage to touch something profound in them, you may win them over.

Having said that, answering their question in this way definitely possesses some risks, and you should think twice whether to opt for it or not…

Ready to answer this one? Great! Now you should check our Interview Success Package 2.0 for up to 10 premium answers to all 104 interview questions. Learn something your competitors won’t know, and outclass them in your next interview! Alternatively you can have a look at sample answers to the following questions:

• What makes you unique?
• What accomplishments are you most proud of?
• Why should we hire you?
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Describe a Person Who Inspired You a Lot

Describe a Person Who Inspired You a Lot.

• Who is the person?
• For what was he/she inspired?
• Why was he/she inspired?
• How did you feel about it?

Sample 1 Describe a person who inspired you a lot.

The person who has inspired me a lot is my grandmother. She was a remarkable woman who inspired me in many ways. She was a strong, independent, hardworking person who faced many challenges with a positive attitude and perseverance.

My grandmother inspired me with her ability to work hard and achieve her goals. She grew up in a small village in India and faced many obstacles as a young woman. Despite this, she was determined to succeed and worked hard to complete her education. She later became a teacher, helping to educate young children in her village.

My grandmother also inspired me with her kindness and compassion towards others. She was always willing to help and was well-respected by the people in her community. She was an excellent role model for me in her generosity towards others and willingness to put others before herself.

I was also inspired by my grandmother’s dedication to her family. She always ensured that her family was well taken care of and that we had everything we needed. She instilled strong family and community values in me, which have stayed with me throughout my life.

Overall, my grandmother was an incredible person who impacted my life significantly. She taught me the importance of hard work, kindness, and compassion, and I will always be grateful for her inspiration. I feel privileged to have had her as my grandmother, and I will always cherish the memories and lessons she shared with me.

Sample 2 Describe a person who inspired you a lot.

The person who has inspired me the most is one of my closest friends, Sarah. She has inspired me in many ways and helped me grow both personally and professionally.

I am inspired by Sarah’s unwavering determination to achieve her goals . She has always been clear about what she wants to accomplish and has worked incredibly hard to make those goals a reality. She has faced many challenges but has never given up on her dreams.

In addition to her drive and determination, I am inspired by Sarah’s kindness and empathy towards others. She is always willing to lend a listening ear or a helping hand to anyone in need. Her friends and colleagues highly regard her for her compassionate nature and willingness to put others before herself.

I am also inspired by Sarah’s willingness to take risks and try new things. She has always been very adventurous and has never been afraid to step outside of her comfort zone. She has inspired me to be more open-minded and to embrace new experiences and challenges.

Sarah has positively influenced my life, and I am grateful to have her as a friend. She has inspired me to be a better person and has shown me what is possible when you set your mind to something. I feel fortunate to have someone like Sarah, who is a constant source of inspiration and motivation.

Sample 3 Describe a person who inspired you a lot.

The person who has inspired me the most is my mother. She is a robust and resilient woman who has faced many challenges with grace and determination.

My mother has inspired me in many ways, but I am most inspired by her work ethic and dedication to her family. She has always put her family first and has worked incredibly hard to provide for us. She has always been a source of support and encouragement for me, even when times were tough.

In addition to her work ethic, I am also inspired by my mother’s kindness and compassion towards others. She has always been willing to help anyone in need, whether it be a family member, friend or stranger. She has taught me the importance of treating others with respect and empathy and that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

My mother’s perseverance and strength in the face of adversity have also been a great source of inspiration to me. She has faced many difficult situations throughout her life but never gave up or lost hope. Her resilience has taught me that no matter how tough things get, it is possible to overcome them with hard work and determination.

Overall, my mother has been a constant source of inspiration to me. She has taught me the value of hard work, kindness, and perseverance and what it means to be a strong and caring person. I am grateful to have her as my mother and feel fortunate to have been inspired by her throughout my life.

Follow-Up Questions Describe a person who inspired you a lot.

Question 1:- who motivates children the most.

In most cases, parents are the ones who motivate children the most. They are the first and most significant influence in a child’s life, and their words and actions substantially impact their child’s motivation and self-esteem. Parents who offer support, encouragement, and positive reinforcement are more likely to raise motivated and successful children. They can do this by providing a nurturing and positive environment, setting goals and expectations, and showing interest and involvement in their child’s life . Teachers, coaches, and peers can also motivate children, but parents usually have the most significant impact on a child’s motivation and drive.

Question 2:- How can teachers motivate children?

There are many ways that teachers can motivate children. One of the most effective ways is to create a positive and engaging learning environment. Teachers can do this by using interactive and varied teaching methods, providing student input and discussion opportunities, and showing enthusiasm and passion for the subject matter. Additionally, teachers can offer regular feedback and praise to students, setting achievable goals and celebrating student achievements. Teachers can help children feel motivated and enthusiastic about their learning by providing a supportive and stimulating environment.

Question 3:- How is it different from teaching kids?

Teaching children and motivating children are two different but closely related concepts. While teaching involves imparting children knowledge and skills, motivating consists of encouraging children to engage with the learning process and take an active role in their education. Motivating children often require different strategies than teaching, such as providing positive reinforcement, building solid relationships with students, and using interactive teaching methods that foster engagement and enthusiasm. Effective teaching also requires motivation, as students who are motivated to learn are more likely to be receptive to new information and engaged in the learning process.

Question 4:- What should teenagers have?

Teenagers have unique developmental and emotional needs. As such, they need certain things in their lives, including supportive and involved parents or caregivers, a sense of belonging and connection to peers, access to education and opportunities for personal growth, and safe and stable living environments. Teenagers also benefit from positive role models, healthy habits and routines, and the ability to express themselves and develop their interests and identities. By having these things, teenagers can grow into healthy, happy, and prosperous adults.

Question 5:- What qualities make someone a role model?

Several qualities make someone a good role model. Firstly, they should have a robust set of values that they consistently demonstrate in their words and actions. Role models should also possess empathy, kindness, respect towards others, and a strong sense of responsibility and integrity. They should be accomplished in their field and be able to inspire and motivate others to achieve their goals. Furthermore, good role models should be able to listen and guide those who look up to them while being relatable and approachable. By embodying these qualities, role models can have a positive and lasting impact on those they influence.

Question 6:- Why should children learn from role models?

Learning from role models can have a significant positive impact on children. Role models can provide children with valuable guidance, support, and inspiration as they navigate the challenges of growing up. By observing the behaviours and attitudes of positive role models, children can learn essential life skills, such as empathy, resilience, and responsibility. They can also gain a sense of direction and purpose as they strive to emulate the qualities of their role models. Additionally, learning from role models can help children build healthy and meaningful relationships and develop a strong sense of self-worth and confidence. Overall, positive role models can be essential to a child’s personal and social development.

Question 7:- Who can influence children more, teachers or parents?

Teachers and parents can significantly influence children, but their influence can vary depending on the child’s age, personality, and relationship with the adults. Parents are generally the primary caregivers and educators in a child’s life; as such, they significantly impact their child’s beliefs, values, and behaviours. On the other hand, teachers play a critical role in a child’s academic development. They can provide guidance and support in problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making. Both parents and teachers can influence a child’s attitudes and outlook on life, and a strong partnership between them can help children thrive in all areas of their development. Ultimately, the influence of parents and teachers is complementary and can be highly impactful when working together.

Question 8:- What kind of international news inspires people?

International news that inspires people often involves stories of human achievement, progress, and positive change. For example, information on breakthroughs in medical research, environmental sustainability, or global cooperation towards peace and stability can be uplifting and motivating. Human-interest stories, such as the triumph of an individual or community in the face of adversity, can inspire people to persevere and overcome challenges. Furthermore, news of acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion can evoke feelings of hope and optimism for a better future. Overall, international news that inspires people is often characterized by positivity, resilience, and a sense of progress towards a brighter and more inclusive world.

About The Author

Speech on My Inspiration

Everyone has a source of inspiration. For some, it’s a person, for others, it’s a dream. For me, it’s a mix of both.

Let’s share our stories. You’ll get to know about my inspiration and I’d love to hear about yours.

1-minute Speech on My Inspiration

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, I stand before you today to talk about a subject close to my heart, ‘My Inspiration’. Inspiration is like a spark, a bright light that guides us through the darkest nights.

I find my inspiration in a person who is very special to me – my grandmother. She is like a shining star, always guiding me, showing me the right path. Her life is a story of courage and determination, a story that inspires me every day.

My grandmother grew up in a small village with very few opportunities. But she believed in the power of education. Despite the challenges, she went to school, studied under the dim light of a lantern, and became the first woman in her village to go to college.

Her life teaches me that no dream is too big if we have the courage to chase it. It doesn’t matter where we come from, what matters is where we want to go. She inspires me to dream, to aspire, to strive for my goals.

But my inspiration does not stop at her achievements. It’s her kindness, her love for people, her belief in doing good that truly inspires me. She taught me that real success lies in the happiness we bring to others, in the love we spread around us.

In conclusion, my inspiration, my grandmother, is a beacon of hope and strength for me. She shows me that with hard work, determination, and a kind heart, we can overcome any obstacle. She is my guiding star, my inspiration. I hope her story inspires you too, to dream big and to spread love and kindness wherever you go.

Also check:

• Essay on My Inspiration

2-minute Speech on My Inspiration

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, I stand before you today to talk about something that is very close to my heart – ‘My Inspiration’.

My inspiration is not a person, but a simple, yet powerful concept – the idea of ‘Never Giving Up’. It is this idea that has guided me through the darkest times and has helped me rise above the most difficult situations. It is the light at the end of my tunnel, the wind beneath my wings, and the fuel that keeps my engine running.

The idea of never giving up teaches us that failure is not the end, but rather a stepping stone towards success. It’s like when we’re learning to ride a bicycle. We fall, we get hurt, but we don’t just leave the bicycle and walk away. We dust ourselves off, get back on, and try again. And it’s in those moments of trying again, that we learn, we grow, and we succeed.

This idea also teaches us to be patient. Just like a seed, it takes time for us to grow and bloom. We cannot rush it. We cannot force it. We have to nurture it, water it, give it sunlight, and then wait. It’s the same with our dreams and goals. We need to work hard, stay focused, and then have the patience to wait for the results.

Never giving up also means not being afraid to take risks. It’s like diving into a pool for the first time. It’s scary, it’s unknown, but unless we take that leap, we’ll never know the joy of swimming. Similarly, in life, we need to take risks, step out of our comfort zone, and explore the unknown. It might be scary, but it’s also where the magic happens.

But most importantly, the idea of never giving up teaches us about the power of belief. Belief in ourselves, in our dreams, and in our ability to make them come true. Just like a bird, we need to believe that we can fly, even before we spread our wings. It’s this belief that gives us the courage to jump off the branch and soar into the sky.

So, my dear friends, this is my inspiration – the idea of never giving up. It’s not just a concept, but a way of life. It’s a guide that leads me through the journey of life. It’s a beacon that lights up my path. It’s a mantra that I chant every day. It’s a belief that I hold dear.

To conclude, I would like to say that each one of us has the power to inspire ourselves. We just need to find that idea, that belief, that concept, that lights a fire within us and pushes us to keep going, no matter what. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about how hard we fall, but how high we bounce back. Thank you.

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30 Famous and Short Inspirational Speeches (5 minutes or less)

• December 13, 2023

This post is all about the best short inspirational speeches.

If you are in need of a quick boost of inspiration and motivation, you will find that in this post. I am one of those people who loves to get motivated. That sounds weird, right?

Well, a lot of people these days tend to give motivation a hard time because they don’t believe that it has lasting effects. In other words, they believe that what’s most important is your own self-discipline, because that’s what you have to rely on when motivation isn’t there.

And while I do agree with that sentiment in general, I will never pass up a great motivational podcast or YouTube video! 😀 There’s just something about them that even if they might not have lasting effects, they do truly help pump me up in the moment to get work done. And that’s usually what matters to me the most when I am looking for them in the first place.

So, here are the very best short motivational speeches so you can get that quick fix of motivation that you’re looking for, and ultimately move closer to your goals and dreams.

Short Inspirational Speeches

Believe in yourself speeches.

If you lack confidence or you are doubting yourself, these short motivational speeches will help you to believe in yourself again.

1. Rocky’s Inspirational Speech to His Son | ROCKY BALBOA

In less than 5 minutes, you’ll watch Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) explain to his son that if he wants to have the life he desires, he needs to believe in himself. He needs to stop listening to the people that tell him who he is, and instead go be his own person, and stop looking for someone to blame when things aren’t working out for him because ultimately it’s on HIM. This is one of the greatest inspirational speeches of all time.

2. Find Your Purpose | David Goggins – Motivational Speech

David Goggins is truly incredible. A former Navy SEAL, he has broken records and ran more races than you’d imagine. But the one thing that really stands out about him is his mindset.

Listen to this video if you want to be great. He tells you exactly what you need to do to get there.

Also, if you’ve never read David Goggins’ book “Can’t Hurt Me” , I highly recommend it. He talks about his rough upbringing, and how he was able to essentially become an entirely new person to become a Navy SEAL.

3. BELIEVE IN YOURSELF – Motivational Video (ft. Jaret Grossman & Eric Thomas)

This video is all about how important it is to have the proper belief system. If you truly believe that you are one of the best, you will start acting that you are one of the best, and eventually you may just be one of the best.

4. DON’T LET YOUR DREAMS DIE – Motivational Speech

This YouTube short by Mel Robbins is so good, I had to share it. A light bulb went on in my head when I first watched this. If there is something that is always on your mind, don’t let it haunt you forever because you never put yourself out there to try it. Go and DO!

Motivational Speeches About Not Giving Up

The following short motivational speeches are all about not giving up on your dreams. If you are losing hope, these short motivational speeches will inspire you to keep going.

5. Brené Brown It’s Not The Critic Who Counts

This speech will give you chills, and it is packed with great lessons about life. Brené Brown is a researcher who went viral for a Ted Talk, and here she talks about how to overcome critics and to keep believing in yourself no matter what. If you are worried about what people think of you, you NEED to watch this.

6. Amazing Motivational Speech by Denzel Washington 

This is another video that gave me chills. The main theme of this famous speech is “ease is a greater threat to progress than hardship”. Stay consistent even when it’s hard. Easy task after easy task won’t get you to where you want to be.

7. Steve Harvey – Inspirational Speech | Motivational Short Video | Incredible You

This short motivational speech by Steve Harvey is short but impactful. If you are someone who stepped out of your comfort zone to pursue something really difficult, and you’re thinking about giving up, this speech may just prevent you from doing so.

8. Ed Mylett on The Power of One More

Ed Mylett shares the story of how his father stayed sober until his dying day, and how Ed himself uses that same philosophy to never give up. Personal stories like these are always the most inspiring.

By the way, if you REALLY want to push yourself and become the best, read Ed Mylett’s most recent book on this same topic, “The Power Of One More” .

Motivational Speeches If You’re Feeling Behind

Are you feeling behind in life? If so, let’s change that. Watch these videos to be reminded that you are on your own unique path. You have no competition other than your past self. These short motivational videos will help you believe that.

9. Before You Feel Pressure – WATCH THIS | by Jay Shetty

Jay Shetty talks to a school class about how there’s no one “perfect” life timeline to follow, and that we are all on our own clock. 

10. Kevin Hart Motivational Speech

If you’ve made mistakes in your life (haven’t we all) this is a great story from Kevin Hart (famous comedian and actor) that will remind you of the power of making mistakes and pushing through hard times.

11. Oprah Winfrey | 5 Minutes For The NEXT 50 Years of Your LIFE

In this video, Oprah talks about the importance of really knowing who you are and what you want in your life. She talks about surrounding yourself with great people, and how to have enormous success. “Let excellence be your brand.”

Listen To These If You Need Perspective

Sometimes in life, we get so caught up in the day to day that we forget what truly matters – the people we love. If you are having trouble with something in life, give these videos a listen, because they just might help you realize what is really important.

12. Arnold Schwarzenegger – Organize Your Day | 1 MINUTE MOTIVATIONAL VIDEO

Are you the kind of person who always complains that you don’t have enough time to do something? If so, you’re not alone. We are all busy humans, running around doing a million things. But if you aren’t prioritizing what you know you should be doing, listen to this video.

13. How to Judge Your Life Using 3 Simple Questions | Brendon Burchard Speech| Goalcast

Have you ever heard of Mortality Motivation? It’s essentially what it sounds like… being motivated by the impending reality of your death. It sounds a little morbid, but it’s actually quite beautiful and it can be really beneficial if you harness it for good.

In this video by motivational speaker Brendon Burchard, he shares how a car accident when he was 19 gave him mortality motivation and changed everything for him.

14. FALL, SUFFER AND LEARN | MOTIVATIONAL SPEECH BY OPRAH WINFREY

This speech by Oprah was given to Harvard graduates, and it’s a unique speech because she talks about failing, even after the major success of her television show for over 20 years.

It’s refreshing to hear that even the most successful people fail. What really matters, though, is what you do with your failure. Do you learn from it and move on? Or do you give up?

15. YOU VS YOU – Best Motivational Video

This is a pretty intense video about competition. If your #1 competition is someone else, you need to change your perspective. Your only competition is YOU. The only thing preventing you from moving forward is you.

16. The Speech That Brought This Entire School To Tears

This is a speech about a man who never really paid much attention to his mother, until she passed away. It’s an emotional reminder to cherish the time you have with your loved ones, because you never know if the next time you see them will be the last time.

In my opinion, this speaker embodies many qualities of the best motivational speakers because he really knows how to capture the audience’s attention and pull on their heart strings.

17. 5 Minutes to Start Your Day Right! – MORNING MOTIVATION

This motivational speech is by a Navy SEAL who will remind you to start each day with a task completed, respect everyone, take risks, step up during tough times, and never give up. If you do these things, the next generation, and the generations that follow, will live better lives than we live today.

18. The Real You – Jim Carrey

This video is one of the best motivational speech examples because it reminds you of something so important: sometimes we can be so focused on earning more money, gaining fame, and becoming admired that we lose ourselves or we lose sight of what’s really important to us in the process.

Jim Carrey talks about how he is a great example of that. He got all of the money, fame, and admiration, and admits that that wasn’t really who he was. Sometimes it’s nice to be reminded that money and fame, or even getting to the top of the corporate ladder, while nice, aren’t going to be the thing that brings you fulfillment when it’s all said and done.

19. Ed Mylett Motivational Speech

I posted another motivational video by Ed Mylett above, but if you don’t know much about him, prepare to have your world rocked. He’s probably my absolute favorite motivational speaker because he is successful and he works hard, but he’s also (seemingly) a kind, family guy who’s been through a few things.

In this video, he talks about being “the one” that changed his family tree. Take a listen because I’m sure it’ll get you thinking on whether or not you can be “the one” in YOUR family.

P.S. If you love personal growth content, you should check out Ed Mylett’s podcast . I listen to it every week and it is one of my favorites.

20. If You Feel LOST, LAZY & UNMOTIVATED In Life, WATCH THIS! | Tony Robbins Motivation

If you are someone who is constantly blaming others or your circumstances for your unhappiness, you need to listen to this video by Tony Robbins . Bad things happen to us all, it’s up to you to focus on what you can control.

Great Inspirational Speeches About Hard Work

How hard do you think you work? Could you be doing more? If there’s a little voice inside of your heart that knows you could be doing more and better, these motivational videos about the value of hard work will help you push yourself.

And a side note: your chances of having good luck increase the harder and longer you work.

21. You’re Not Tired, You’re Just Weak – David Goggins Motivation

If you’re feeling lazy or like you don’t want to do something, watch this video til 2:25 . It will give you the push you need to put your head down and do the work. It’ll remind you to keep pursuing your goals and to keep challenging yourself. Key takeaway: push yourself beyond your perceived limits.

22. Hard Work & Patience – A Gary Vaynerchuk Original Film

If you want to be motivated to work hard, listen to Gary Vaynerchuk. Gary Vaynerchuk is a creative genius known for his marketing tactics. This famous motivational speech is all about playing “the long game”, as in, working for a long time and having patience instead of working hard for a short period of time and expecting to win quickly.

23. OBSESSION – Best Motivational Speech

This is one of my favorite short motivational speeches because it makes me feel a little more normal for being “weird”. I’m the kind of person who chooses to work on the weekends instead of hanging out with people. Crazy, right? But it’s because I’m working toward a dream of mine and it’s something that’s really important to me. The most important thing to remember: it’s okay to devote yourself to something. It’s the only way to get what you want in life.

24. WORK LIKE HELL – Best Motivational Video

This is a series of motivational speeches about doing a little bit more and outworking your competition. I’m not going to lie – I’m up late writing this post and listening to this very video is what’s motivating me to keep going.

25. The video EVERY woman should watch!

Whether or not you’re a Rachel Hollis fan may be up for debate (and that’s okay!) but I happen to think she’s a great motivational speaker. This entire speech will inspire you to work hard and take massive action – today.

26. NEVER SURRENDER – Powerful Motivational Speech (by Kobe Bryant)

This one minute video by the late Kobe Bryant is one of the most famous short speeches. I read a book recently by his former personal trainer and I learned that Kobe really outworked everyone. He talks about a quote in this video that really stuck with him, and I think it’s great advice if you’re the kind of person who needs motivation to keep working hard.

Motivational Speeches About Working Smart

Have you ever heard the saying “work smarter, not harder”? That saying is all about ensuring that the work you are doing is actually efficient. Are you getting to where you want to go with all of the work that you are putting in? Are you getting closer to your goals and your dreams? Or are you sprinting like a hamster on a wheel and just running in circles?

Here are great videos on the importance of working hard but also working intentionally.

27. SET SYSTEMS RATHER THAN GOALS – Motivational Speech – James Clear

A goal gives you a sense of direction, but if you don’t spell out precisely how you are going to get to a goal, it is useless. You must develop systems. Listen to this James Clear video to gain valuable life lessons.

By the way, James Clear is an author who wrote perhaps my favorite book of all time: “Atomic Habits” . It’s life-changing if you haven’t read it yet.

28. Matthew McConaughey | 5 Minutes for the NEXT 50 Years of Your LIFE

This is one of the best motivational speeches of all time about how to live a great life for YOU. It’s filled with little pieces of wisdom that’ll really get you thinking about how you live your life and in what direction you want to go.

29. Visualization is the key – Bob Proctor

Do you believe in the Law of Attraction? If not, I have to say I’m surprised! I’ve experienced it in my own life more than once, and it is incredibly powerful. Here’s a great video that sums up the power of visualization, and if you want to learn more about the Law of Attraction or manifestation in general, read this post .

This video shows the true power of words, thoughts, and feelings that you have.

30. How to Stay Motivated – Carla Harris

Here is a YouTube short with very practical advice from Carla Harris on HOW to stay motivated. It’s all about having a vision!

This post was all about short inspirational speeches. Which one was your favorite?

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About Taylor

A few years after graduating college, Taylor made it her mission to become debt free. After paying off all $60k of debt, she began to blog about what she's really passionate about: personal development. Nowadays, Taylor blogs about the topics of Mindset, Money, Health, and Career for women.

"It's Per$onal" is a super popular and anonymous blog series about the personal lives and finances of women all over the world. Check it out!

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4 Letter Words That Are Inspirational & Positive 

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How to Write a Speech about Someone

December 27, 2023

Conducting interviews with the person and their colleagues

Conducting interviews with the person and their colleagues is an essential step when writing a speech about someone. These interviews provide valuable firsthand insights and personal anecdotes that can bring the speech to life. Start by scheduling a one-on-one interview with the person you are writing about, allowing them to share their thoughts, experiences, and achievements. Additionally, reach out to their colleagues, friends, and family members who can offer a different perspective and additional information. Prepare thoughtful and open-ended questions to encourage detailed responses. Take thorough notes during the interviews and pay attention to key moments, emotions, and noteworthy stories. These interviews will not only provide you with valuable content for the speech but will also help you capture the essence and personality of the person you are writing about.

Researching online and offline sources

Researching online and offline sources is crucial when writing a speech about someone. It allows you to gather a comprehensive understanding of the person’s background, accomplishments, and impact. Begin by exploring reputable online sources such as news articles, biographies, interviews, and profiles. These sources can provide a wealth of information, including professional achievements, personal milestones, and notable events. Additionally, delve into offline sources such as books, magazines, journals, and archives that may offer unique insights and lesser-known details. Pay attention to relevant speeches or presentations the person has given in the past, as this can provide valuable inspiration and guidance for your own speech. By conducting thorough research, you can ensure that your speech is well-informed, accurate, and compelling, showcasing the person’s achievements and capturing their essence effectively.

Outlining the speech and organizing the information

Outlining the speech and organizing the information is a critical step when writing a speech about someone. It helps ensure that your speech is coherent, well-structured, and easy to follow for your audience. Here are some steps to help you outline and organize the information effectively:

• Identify the main themes and key points: Start by identifying the overarching themes and main points you want to convey in your speech. These could be the person’s achievements, personal qualities, or significant milestones.
• Create a logical flow: Arrange the main points in a logical order that makes sense to your audience. Consider using a chronological order, a problem-solution approach, or a thematic structure to organize your speech.
• Use sub-points or supporting details: Break down each main point into sub-points or supporting details that provide more depth and context. These can include specific examples, stories, statistics, or quotes that support your main points.
• Prioritize information: Determine the most important information you want to include in your speech and ensure it receives the appropriate focus. Trim down any excess or less relevant details to keep your speech concise and impactful.
• Consider transitions: Plan smooth transitions between different sections of your speech to maintain a cohesive flow. Transitions help your audience follow along easily and understand the logical progression of your ideas.
• Review and revise: Once you have outlined your speech, review and revise it for clarity, coherence, and effectiveness. Ensure that each point aligns with your overall purpose and message.

By following these steps, you can create a well-organized speech that effectively communicates your message and honors the person you are speaking about.

Identifying the Theme and Purpose of the Speech

When writing a speech about someone, it is essential to establish a clear theme and purpose to ensure a coherent and impactful delivery. The theme of the speech should revolve around the key attributes, accomplishments, or impact of the person you are speaking about. It might focus on their leadership qualities, innovative contributions, or personal journey.

The purpose of the speech could vary depending on the context. It could aim to celebrate their achievements, inspire and motivate the audience, or pay tribute to their legacy. Understanding the theme and purpose helps structure the speech, allowing you to gather relevant anecdotes, quotes, or examples that support your message.

To identify the theme and purpose, consider the overall message you want to convey and the desired impact on the audience. Research the person extensively to gather sufficient material, and then structure your speech around a central theme that aligns with the purpose. Remember, clarity in theme and purpose creates a memorable and meaningful speech about someone.

Using Rhetorical Devices to Enhance the Message

In order to write a compelling speech about someone, incorporating rhetorical devices can elevate the impact of your message. Rhetorical devices are techniques and language patterns that engage and persuade the audience, making your speech more memorable and persuasive.

One commonly used device is the use of repetition, where key words or phrases are repeated for emphasis and to reinforce the message. This helps to create a rhythmic flow and enhance the overall impact.

Another powerful device is the use of metaphors and analogies, as they provide vivid imagery and facilitate a deeper understanding of the person you are speaking about. They can help paint a picture in the minds of the audience, making your speech more relatable and engaging.

Furthermore, employing rhetorical questions can evoke curiosity and prompt the audience to reflect on the subject, while alliteration and parallelism add a poetic touch and enhance the overall delivery.

By integrating these and other rhetorical devices strategically throughout your speech, you can captivate the audience, amplify your message, and bring your speech about someone to life.

Choosing the Right Language and Tone

When writing a speech about someone, selecting the right language and tone is crucial in effectively conveying your message and connecting with the audience. The language used should be clear, concise, and appropriate for the occasion and the audience’s level of understanding.

Consider the tone you want to set – whether it is formal, informal, celebratory, or reflective – and tailor your language accordingly. Utilize words and phrases that resonate with the subject’s personality, achievements, or values, ensuring they are accurately represented.

Additionally, be mindful of the emotional impact you want to create. By using descriptive and evocative language, you can engage the audience’s senses and create a deeper connection to the person you are speaking about.

It’s also important to strike a balance between facts and emotions. While presenting relevant information, infuse the speech with anecdotes, stories, and personal experiences that highlight the human side of the individual, fostering empathy and relatability.

Ultimately, choosing the right language and tone plays a crucial role in crafting a speech that not only informs but also inspires, capturing the essence of the person you are speaking about and leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

Creating a Compelling Opening and Closing

The opening and closing of a speech are critical moments that have the power to capture the audience’s attention and leave a lasting impression. To make these moments compelling and impactful, consider the following strategies:

• Start with a bold statement or a thought-provoking question that immediately grabs the audience’s attention.
• Use an engaging anecdote or story that relates to the person you are speaking about. This can create an emotional connection and draw the audience into the speech.
• Incorporate a powerful quote or a relevant statistic that highlights the significance or impact of the individual.
• Invoke the audience’s curiosity by presenting a surprising or intriguing fact related to the person.
• Include a personal reflection or experience that showcases your own connection to the individual. This can help establish credibility and demonstrate the personal significance of the speech.

In the closing, aim to leave a lasting impression by:

• Summarizing the key points of the speech in a concise and compelling manner.
• Reiterating the significance and impact of the person’s achievements or influence.
• Ending with a strong call to action, inspiring the audience to act or reflect upon the person’s legacy.
• Utilizing a memorable metaphor or analogy that reinforces the central theme or message of the speech.
• Expressing gratitude or offering a heartfelt tribute to the person, leaving the audience with a sense of admiration and appreciation.

By utilizing these strategies, you can create a captivating opening and closing that effectively frame the speech and resonate with the audience.

Tips for Making a Lasting Impression

When crafting a speech about someone, it’s crucial to ensure that your words leave a lasting impression on the audience. Here are some tips to help you achieve that:

• Research extensively: Take the time to thoroughly research and gather as much information as possible about the person you are speaking about. This will enable you to create a comprehensive and impactful speech.
• Establish a connection: Find a personal connection between yourself and the individual, whether it’s through shared experiences, values, or goals. This will make your speech more relatable and genuine.
• Tell memorable stories: Incorporate anecdotes and stories that illustrate the person’s character, achievements, or impact. Narrative elements create emotional engagement and enhance the audience’s understanding of the subject.
• Use vivid language: Employ strong and descriptive language that paints a vivid picture in the minds of the listeners. This will make your speech more engaging and memorable.
• Engage the senses: Appeal to the audience’s senses by using sensory language, such as sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell. This will create a more immersive experience and make your speech stand out.
• Utilize visual aids: Include compelling visual aids, such as images or videos, to supplement your speech. Visuals have a powerful impact and can enhance the audience’s understanding and emotional connection.
• Practice delivery: Rehearse your speech to ensure smooth and confident delivery. Practice your pacing, body language, and intonation to effectively convey your message and captivate the audience.

By following these tips, you can write a speech that leaves a lasting impression, resonates with your audience, and does justice to the person you are speaking about.

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What to Say to Someone Who Inspires You: 25 Examples!

Everyone has that one person in their life who stands as a beacon of inspiration.

They may be a mentor, a friend, or even a public figure whose actions and words motivate us to be better, dream bigger, and strive harder.

Communicating our feelings of admiration to these inspirational figures can be challenging, as it’s not always easy to put such profound emotions into words.

Yet, it’s important to convey our gratitude and acknowledge their positive impact on our lives.

What to Say to Someone Who Inspires You: 25 Example Messages

• “I want to express how much your strength and determination inspire me. Seeing you overcome challenges and persist despite the odds has given me a blueprint for navigating my own life’s trials. I am truly grateful for your influence.”
• “I cannot put into words how much you inspire me to reach for greatness. Your passion and drive are contagious , and they have pushed me to reach heights I once thought unattainable. Your belief in me has been a beacon of hope on my journey.”
• “I am constantly amazed by your unwavering belief in me. It has served as a springboard, propelling me to strive harder and achieve more than I ever thought I could. I want to express my deepest gratitude for the inspirational role you’ve played in my life.”
• “You have an extraordinary ability to turn obstacles into stepping stones. Watching you face adversity with such resilience has been a life lesson in courage and tenacity. You inspire me more than words can express.”
• “The integrity you exhibit in your actions has been a shining light in my life. You live your values so authentically, and you inspire me to do the same. I am thankful for your presence in my life.”
• “Your passion and dedication to what you do are infectious. It’s clear that you love what you do, and that passion has inspired me to pursue my dreams without fear or hesitation. You’ve shown me the true power of passion and hard work.”
• “Your kindness and generosity are a testament to the human spirit. I am always in awe of your selfless nature and your readiness to help others. You’ve taught me the true essence of compassion.”
• “Your faith in yourself and your abilities is a testament to your strength. The way you tackle difficulties head-on, never losing sight of your goals, is a source of inspiration for me. Your courage and determination have taught me the true meaning of perseverance.”
• “Your wisdom and deep understanding of life have guided me through some of my most challenging times. The knowledge you’ve shared has had a significant impact on my outlook and approach to life. Your influence has truly changed my life for the better.”
• “Your optimistic outlook and positive spirit have transformed the way I view the world. You’ve shown me that positivity can shape our reality, and I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned from you.”
• “Your creative thinking and innovative ideas inspire me to break away from conventional ways of thinking. You’ve taught me the value of thinking outside the box, and for that, I am profoundly grateful.”
• “Your commitment to your ambitions and discipline in your actions are truly admirable. You’ve set an example of how dedication can turn dreams into reality. You’ve been a great role model for me.”
• “Your zest for life and your ability to enjoy every moment has truly inspired me. You’ve taught me that life is a gift to be enjoyed, not just a series of tasks to be completed. I am truly grateful for your influence.”

Related content : Here’s What to Say to Someone Who Saw Something Traumatic Here’s What to Say to Someone Who Is Going through a Breakup

• “Your empathy and selflessness in dealing with others are truly inspiring. You’ve shown me that kindness goes a long way and that we can all make a difference in other people’s lives. I am truly grateful for your positive influence on my life.”
• “Your tireless pursuit of excellence has set a benchmark for me to strive towards. Your commitment and hard work have shown me what it takes to achieve success. You inspire me more than you know.”
• “Your humility in success and your graciousness in failure have left a deep impression on me. They’ve taught me that character is who we are when things do not go as planned, and for that lesson, I am forever grateful.”
• “Watching you overcome challenges and persist despite setbacks is an inspiration. Your resilience has shown me the importance of never giving up, even when the going gets tough.”
• “Your ability to maintain balance and peace in the midst of chaos is something I deeply admire. You’ve shown me that tranquility is an inner state that can be maintained regardless of the external circumstances.”
• “Your unwavering commitment to your values and principles, even in the face of adversity, has inspired me to stay true to who I am. You’ve shown me that our values are our guiding lights.”
• “Your spirit of adventure and your willingness to take risks have ignited a spark within me. You’ve shown me the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing new experiences.”
• “I’m inspired by your continuous journey towards growth and self-improvement. You’ve shown me that there is no end to learning and that every day brings new opportunities for growth.”
• “Your relentless pursuit of knowledge and your inquisitive mind are truly inspiring. You’ve shown me the value of intellectual curiosity and instilled in me a love for learning.”
• “Your calmness under pressure and your ability to handle challenging situations with grace are truly inspiring. You’ve shown me the power of composure and the importance of maintaining a clear mind in the face of adversity.”
• “I’m in awe of your ability to find joy in the small things. You’ve shown me that happiness isn’t about the grandeur of our lives but about appreciating the simple pleasures that each day brings.”
• “Your kindness and compassion are truly inspiring. You treat everyone with such warmth and understanding. You’ve taught me the power of empathy and love, and for that, I am eternally grateful.”

Expressing gratitude to someone who inspires us is an essential part of our personal growth.

Not only does it acknowledge their influence on our life’s journey, but it also allows us to reflect on our own progress and aspirations.

It’s a powerful way to deepen our connections, foster positive relationships, and create an inspiring ripple effect that can touch the lives of others in the most profound ways.

Image credits – Photo by Guillaume de Germain on Unsplash

I’m a MA, (CMT) Certified Massage Therapist, Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), and Reiki Master —  I’m a licensed massage therapist with over 10 years of experience in the industry.

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4 High School Graduation Speech Samples That Inspire

You made it to your senior year! And the next step in your life is graduation. Congrats on being chosen to speak for your class on the big day. While public speaking can be a bit intimidating, we know you have what it takes to do an awesome job. All you need is a little inspo for your high school graduation speech. 

Not to worry. We have your back. So take a deep breath, check out our high school graduation speech examples and tips, and get ready to wow your classmates, faculty, and families. You've totally got this. 

Sample Speeches for High School Graduation

While you probably won't want to use these speeches exactly, they're definitely a great place to start. Use our sample graduation speeches to help inspire your own creativity. Click to download and edit them for your own use. If you have any trouble downloading, please review the troubleshooting guide .

Helpful Hack If you like the style or sentiment of a particular speech, think of how it applies to your own high school experience, and use that as the basis for an original speech of your own.

Sample One: How We'll Measure These Years

You're not the same group of people you were in your freshman year. And our first sample is a speech that talks about how things have changed over your high school years.

My fellow students, we only arrived here four short years ago, and now it's already time to leave. How did it all go so fast? It seems like only yesterday that we were skinny little freshmen fighting with the locks on our lockers, trying to figure out where our next class was, and looking generally clueless to all the upperclassmen. Now, we are the upperclassmen — the seniors who stand here ready to graduate and move forward in the world. Yet at this seminal moment, we can't help looking back. 

How do we measure the time we've spent in high school? In the beginning, we measured it in class periods, counting down the day to eventual freedom. As the days and weeks passed, we measured it in semesters and later in years as we moved from being those clueless freshmen to becoming sophisticated sophomores who thought they had it all figured out. By the time we reached our junior year, we were confident that we were prepared to take over for the graduating seniors, and we couldn't wait to "rule the school." 

And now here we stand. Our rule is over, and it's up to the next class to step into our shoes and take over. I know that as I look out at all of you, I will measure my time here in a much different way. I will measure it in all the friendships I've enjoyed these last four years. Some were pretty casual, and others were much closer, but I'll remember each one fondly, as I'm sure you all will, too. And when many of our high school memories begin to fade, that's how we'll ultimately measure the time we spent here, not in periods or semesters or years, but in the friendships that we made and the times we shared together. 

Congratulations my fellow graduates of the class of (Insert year). Wherever we go and whatever we do, may we always be friends when we meet again. 

Sample Two: The Future Is in Our Hands

The second example focuses more on what the future holds for a high school graduate.

We stand here today on the precipice of the future. It's not a distant reality anymore. It begins here. It begins today. 

We began high school as children, but we're leaving here as adults. We've completed a basic education that will serve as the platform we use to launch ourselves into our futures. Some of us will go on to college, and others will go straight into the workforce, but each of us will travel our own path. 

No matter where we go or what we do, there are challenges ahead of us. What I'm asking from each of you, and from myself, is to meet those challenges straight on with our heads held high and our hearts wide open. It's not enough to simply try to get by in life. That doesn't move the world forward. We must try to excel in everything we do; strive for excellence in every task, large or small. 

Although it may not be easy to see, every accomplishment we achieve is added to the world's accomplishments. Our individual successes benefit society as a whole because when we succeed, we lighten the burden on our fellow man. When we succeed, we are in a position to give rather than take. 

Imagine if every individual lived up to their own potential. Think about how amazing that would be, and how much better off the world would be. Now imagine if just half of those individuals lived up to their potential. The world would still be an awesome place. If even 1/4 of those individuals worked to make their lives successful, they could still make some amazing contributions to society. 

Well, we may not have the power to inspire the entire world to strive for success, but we do have the power to try to achieve it for ourselves. My challenge to each of you and to myself is to do all that we can to reach our full potential. If each of the (Insert number) students in this graduating class is able to do that, just imagine the effect that would have. The future is truly in our hands, so let's make the most of it. 

Sample Three: A Debt of Gratitude

Nobody's accomplishments are 100% their own—there's always someone there to provide support, inspiration, and motivation. The third sample is about giving thanks to those who have helped everyone successfully graduate from high school.

I'd like to welcome everyone to this solemn and joyous occasion. It has been a long four years, but here we are, ready to graduate. We worked hard to get to this point, but we didn't do it by ourselves. 

We owe a huge debt of gratitude to the following people. To our teachers, thank you for so unselfishly sharing your time, talent, and knowledge with us. Yes, we know it was your job to do it, but what you did for us went beyond the call of duty. You took the time to explain assignments, sometimes repeatedly because we weren't paying attention. You allowed us to come to your classroom after school for extra help when you could have gone home to spend time with your family. You put in the effort to make lessons more interesting so we wouldn't just tune out. You demanded excellence from us whether or not we wanted to give it. You set the bar high and challenged us to live up to it. 

To our parents, thank you for supporting us in more ways than it's possible to count. You dragged us out of bed each morning and made sure we were fed and clothed for school. You herded us out the door to the bus stop or drove us to school yourselves. You helped us with homework, paid our class fees, and listened to our complaints. You came to our plays, attended our sporting events, and chaperoned our dances. You commiserated over our daily dramas, but you tried to give us enough space to learn how to work things out for ourselves. These are just a few of the thousands of ways you've supported us on our journey. 

To our coaches and advisors, thank you for making school about more than just classwork. Through sports, we learned how to power on through adversity and give it our best effort, win or lose. We learned the importance of discipline and good sportsmanship. Through other activities like participating in clubs, school plays, and service projects, we learned how to work closely with others to achieve a common goal, and we had a lot of fun doing it. 

To our custodial staff and lunchroom attendants, thank you for keeping our school clean and safe. You know better than anyone else what slobs we've been. You actually deserve some kind of medal. 

To our principal, vice principal, and all the office staff, thank you for keeping things running smoothly so our teachers could concentrate on us. We're better off for it. 

To our guidance counselors, thank you for listening and trying to keep us on the right track for graduation. Without your help, some of us might not be graduating today. 

As you can see, behind each graduate there must have been at least a dozen people providing support in at least a dozen ways. The best way we graduates can show our gratitude is to make the most of the opportunity we've been given and go forward into the world with the intention of making it a better place for the generations that follow us. We'll pay that debt of gratitude forward. 

Sample Four: Inspirational Moments for Life

You're getting ready to head out into the world as adults. Adulting can be hard, but you'll find all the inspiration you need inside yourself. This last sample speech is an inspirational high school graduation speech that asks each student to look back on some of the moments from high school that will inspire them forever.

While the last four years were filled with friends, classes, teachers, and work, there were also tiny inspirations hiding in plain sight. In those moments, we were too busy, too distracted, too young to notice them. As we take a retrospective look at our high school years, I hope we will all see them clearly now. 

Close your eyes and imagine, if you will, that one thing that one teacher said to you that didn’t mean much at the time, but means something now. If you can’t hear it, think harder. This is one of your inspirational moments from high school.

Now, imagine that one scary moment with that one friend inside the school walls. Think about how you both acted and how it all turned out. If you can’t see it, think harder. This is one of your inspirational moments from high school. 

Imagine, one more time, that time when you felt so proud of yourself. Think about what you accomplished and how you did it for yourself. If you can’t feel it, think harder. This is one of your inspirational moments from high school. 

The most amazing things happen in high school when we least expect them. Although we're different people with different lives, we all experience these inspirational moments that happened in high school and stay with us for life. As we look toward our future, I encourage you to take time and look for these moments. They’ll be your inspiration for life. 

Example of a Humorous Valedictorian Speech

The following video offers a great example of a graduation speech that really speaks to the graduates while being humorous, appropriate, and entertaining. If you have a natural gift for humor, a funny speech like this will be remembered long after other graduation memories have begun to fade.

Tips for Writing a Graduation Speech

Whether you're writing a speech for your homeschool graduation, as the class Valedictorian, or as a graduation thank you speech , there are a few tips for speech writing that can make your talk meaningful and memorable.

Related: Inspirational Graduation Speeches and Themes

Know Your Audience

Even though parents, faculty, and members of the community will be on hand, the focus of your speech should be your classmates. Speak to them!

Grab Their Attention

A good speech grabs the audience's attention and never lets it go. Start off with an attention-grabbing question or a humorous first line, or make a strong statement that provokes curiosity about where the speech is going. Feel free to add appropriate humor liberally. Having a theme for the speech is also helpful.

Tell Stories

Don't just read your speech. Tell your speech by interspersing emotional stories that tug at the heartstrings or inspire positive actions for the future. You might even want to include an original poem to help express your feelings.

Include Everyone

Don't just speak to the academic achievers, sports stars, or popular crowd. Your topic should be all inclusive of your graduating class.

Keep It Short, but Not Too Short

Knowing how long a high school graduation speech should be is important before you start writing. Student speeches at high school graduations are generally between five and 10 minutes long, but closer to five is ideal.

End With a Memorable Message

High school graduation speeches by students and special guests often end with a memorable and actionable sentence that encourages the audience to do something great. It's customary to end by saying, "Thank you" in your graduation speech, which you can do after your memorable one-liner.

Don't Wear Out Your Welcome

A really great commencement speech is enjoyed, not simply endured. Put some serious thought into your speech, say something meaningful, and stick to your topic so your message doesn't get lost. Above all, don't talk too long. Remember that everyone wants to receive their diplomas, shed those caps and gowns , and get on with the celebration.