Originally Posted on The Coaching Tools Company as Happy Holidays 2024! | Rediscover The Fire Within You (Inspiration from Howard Thurman)
Jump to the SQUARE version of this quote graphic to share here >>
As coaches, we often get caught up in what we think we should do or what we think others expect us to do. So, I chose this quote to inspire you to rediscover the fire within.
Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.
– Howard Thurman
Howard Thurman (1899–1981) was a significant figure in American (and African-American) history—a theologian, philosopher, civil rights leader, and mystic whose ideas greatly influenced the modern civil rights movement. His life and work centred on spirituality, social justice, and the interconnectedness of all people.
Below I share why I selected this quote, as well as an alternative square graphic version—and some journaling prompts to explore over the holidays based on this quote.
Why I chose this quote for 2024
In a world filled with endless expectations, obligations, and noise, it’s easy to lose touch with what truly lights us up.
Howard Thurman’s words—“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive”—are a powerful reminder that our greatest contribution comes when we connect deeply with what brings us energy, joy, and purpose.
I chose this quote because it speaks to the heart of personal growth and transformation, something coaches and those of us committed to self-development know well. As coaches, leaders, and individuals striving to make an impact, we often get caught up in what we think we should do or how we’re expected to serve others. While those intentions may be good, they leave us depleted or disconnected from our passions. Thurman flips this narrative: instead of asking how we can meet external demands, he urges us to turn inward and rediscover the fire within.
When we pursue what makes us come alive—whether it’s our coaching work, writing, creating, leading, or building something meaningful—we inspire others to do the same. Aliveness is contagious. It ignites possibility, fosters authenticity, and creates ripples of positive change.
As the year draws to a close, this quote is both a reflection and a call to action. What makes you come alive? What dreams, skills, or passions have been waiting patiently for you to embrace them?
The world doesn’t need more people who are simply going through the motions—it needs people who are fully alive, bringing their whole selves to their work, relationships, and lives.
This is your invitation to reconnect with what lights you up. Because when you come alive, you don’t just change your life—you change the world.
Here’s a great way to use this quote for inspirational journaling over the holidays
Thurman references what makes you come alive, use the following questions to help you explore your fire within:
- Looking across the last year, what were those moments where you felt alive?
- What are your strengths? Those things that light you up and get great results!
- What do you love doing? In life? In business? Make two lists!
- How can you do more of these?
- How could you express your skills and talents in the world more?
- What would it look like to bring your whole self to your work?
- Imagine you did bring your whole self into your work, what would be different in 12 months?
- What actions will you take towards your dreams?
- How can you share your enthusiasm with others?
- When/how/where will I celebrate my life and my awesome self?
Review your answers to the previous questions:
- What stands out for you?
- What are the key points that you want to remember and bring more to life for 2025?
Use these points to create a new list, or make a vision board, or perhaps build a poster. Do something to help you remember to pay attention to what brings you to life, and will help you to do more of what makes you come alive!
Here’s a square version of this year’s quote to share
Wishing you and yours a beautiful, peaceful holiday season.
Best wishes,
Dr. Steve Jeffs
PS. If you haven’t already, grab your Holiday Thank-you Gift to “Make it Happen” in your Biz in 2025 – in manageable 3 months chunks!
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