National Motivation and Inspiration Day Date in the current year: January 2, 2024

Even though National Motivation and Inspiration Day is observed in January, its history is tied to the tragic events of 9/11 in the United States. The idea of such an observance was suggested by motivational and leadership speaker Kevin L. McCrudden, who felt like Americans affected by the tragedy needed a renewed focus on motivation and inspiration as a reminder that there were still things to live for.

McCrudden’s idea was supported by the United States House of Representatives; a resolution supporting the goals of a National Motivation and Inspiration Day was agreed to in the House on December 18, 2001. Although no further steps have been taken and the document has not been signed into law, National Motivation and Inspiration Day has at least some degree of official recognition.

Motivation and Inspiration Day is observed on January 2 for a number of reasons. First and foremost, observing it on September 11 would distract attention from memorial ceremonies dedicated to the victims of the 9/11 attacks. Second, the beginning of the year is the time when most people reflect on the past year and set goals for the new one, so they need inspiration to make New Year’s resolutions and motivation to keep them.

Inspiration and motivation are among the key contributors to achieving happiness and success. Without inspiration, we would be unable to define goals in all spheres of our lives; without motivation, we would struggle to achieve them. Motivation and Inspiration Day is meant to remind people about it and encourage them to look for inspiration and motivation wherever they can.

How can you observe National Motivation and Inspiration Day? It is the perfect day to set some goals for the new year if you didn’t do it on National Resolution Planning Day. Make sure that your goals are specific and realistic because this makes them easier to achieve. Write your goals down and think about the steps you can take to make them come true; it’s hard to find motivation to do something if you’re not sure what it is exactly that you need to do.

Another great way to celebrate Motivation and Inspiration Day is to give a shout-out to all the people who inspire you: family members and friends, teachers and mentors, your favorite actors, musicians, authors, anyone you can think of! You can reach out to them to thank them personally for being an inspiration or, if reaching out is not an option, post a list of the things you admire and find inspiring about them on social media with the hashtags #NationalMotivationAndInspirationDay and #MotivationAndInspirationDay.

Finally, Motivation and Inspiration Day is a great day for doing something you’ve wanted to do for a long time but haven’t had time or motivation to do. Choose a book from your to-read list, sign up for a martial arts or cooking class, schedule a session with a therapist, start learning a new language, get a tattoo, cook a new dish, get a membership at your local gym… anything you can think of.