There's no need to be perfect to inspire others.
 I'm not perfect, my photography isn't perfect, my life isn't perfect, but it is real. Real as in I try to grow everyday as a person and be grateful for everything around me and to be the best possible version of myself. Every imperfect moment gives me something to grow from, every day I can learn something new about myself and the world around me. And that will just make me that much better as a photographer. Not because I will be able to utilize my camera better, but my mind and my heart.
Self growth to me is one of the most important tools in all aspects of your life. I know it has been in mine. Every time you feel uncomfortable about something. Ask yourself what am I to learn from this? What is it showing me? What is it opening my eyes to? Because every experience in your life is preparing you for the next step towards wherever it is you are meant to go. So challenge yourself to be uncomfortable, because it will be worth it.
But remember to not be that hard on yourself for not yet being where you want to be. Instead listen to the lessons your current situation is providing you with. Grow with it.
Work on empathy. This one is huge. Apply it everywhere. It means to be able to stop and put yourself in another persons shoes, aiming to understand their feelings and perspectives and to use that understanding to guide your actions. But there is no growth if you are not open to it. Have an argument with a friend? Stop and ask yourself where they may be coming from (empathy). Feel a bit jealous from someones social media post? Stop and ask yourself what it is you are lacking in your life to make you feel that way? Do something everyday to work towards recognizing your own thoughts and emotions and take responsibility for them.
Thoughts become things. Be aware of this. What is it that makes you feel most alive? What makes you feel inspired and positive? It is amazing how once you recognize what that may be and start focusing on your goals and holding onto positive thoughts and emotions your life can be completely transformed. That doesn't mean you may not have a bad day, but those days don't come around as often if you are committed to your goals and maintain a positive mindset. Surround yourself with people that share that same mindset. You may find that you lose old relationships to make room for new ones on your journey to your best self. Not everyone evolves at the same rate and there is nothing wrong with that.Â
These are all choices to be made. Fear can be a big distraction. But that is all that it is. You can make the choice to think negatively out of fear or you can choose to be positive. Which one will get you further in life? Which one will make your personal relationships better, or more fulfilling? Which choice will make you better in business? Which choice will make it easier to look in the mirror each morning?
Do you need to be perfect to inspire others? No, you really do not need to be. But what will inspire others is the choice to inspire yourself.