How I gained inspiration from others (especially Tim from the Times).

Inspiration drives your career.

Some find inspiration on YouTube.

Some find inspiration on LinkedIn.

Some find it while watching live speakers at conferences.

I experienced an inspirational leader while I was at University.

In my second year on my Journalism degree, we had the pleasure of a guest lecturer, an editor at The Times. He asked the crowd: "Who wants to become a magazine or newspaper journalist? I'm here to offer advice."

I looked around the room and I was the only one with my hand up. My first thought was: 'Wow - i'm gonna get a lot of advice!' (No, that's a lie - my first thought was actually: 'what does everyone else want to with their journalism degree then?!')

Anyway, I digress.

He wasn't the Editor-in-Chief; he was an editor. A position that we was achievable if you worked hard and followed your instincts. I met with him a few times (yes, on my own - my class mates were obviously ALL busy finding out about radio journalism. This was before the interweb, everyone...) and he gave me some sound advice.

I only met with him a few times, but BOY - did he inspire me. Now don't get me wrong, i didn't want to jump into Fleet Street and hang out outside the House of Commons finding the latest government mistakes and reporting back - i wanted to hang out with magazine people!

I didn't fancy Vogue; (I dress quite normally) I didn't fancy Cosmopolitan; (I own only three lipsticks, my 'skincare' routine is non-existent and i've never worn matching swimwear apparel) I wanted to work for a lads' mag. I have an older brother and love male company, I have always been a bit of a tomboy, and when i was studying (1997-2001), these magazines were top of their game.

My final year at Uni was spent topping up module points, after some changes in my first year. I had some time on my hands, and, inspired after chats with Tim the Times' Editor (not his real name. Tim from the Times! Epic) I went full force (and quote bolshy) and secured two weeks' work experience at FHM.

Those two weeks at the biggest international lads' mag were amazing. I had fun, I worked hard, they sent me on 'workie errands' (Left handed screwdriver anyone?) and I learnt a LOT. I must have done something right, as they offered me a freelance job during study and after I graduated. (I know what I did right - I only tell people when bribed or plied with alcohol).

I moved on to Loaded magazine (they actually bribed me) and other writing gigs. I have loved every moment of being a writer, over 20 years later. I have found MUCH inspiration along the way - and I have decided to share some of my most inspiring people with you, the only way I know how. Putting my journalism skills into use, i'll interview some of the best.

Thanks, Tim the Times' editor. (I looked; there isn't one called Tim. Such a shame!)