Beginning and a Backpack

Any journey begins with the first step. That is the beginning. The great thing about life is you can begin again and again, as many times as you need to.

If today is your new beginning, congratulations.

As you take those steps toward a new you, don't forget your backpack.

What's in the backpack, you ask?

Important items, to be sure.

The first is Magical Earplugs. Why magical earplugs? Whenever you start something new or you do something again, that voice in your head says, "You couldn't do it before, what makes you think you can do it now?" etc, etc. Whenever that voice starts to speak up, put in the magic earplugs. Anyone that did anything important didn't listen to the voice that makes you cower in the back corner of defeat. This time can be different, if you use the magical earplugs.

The second is an "I'm Not Like Everyone Else," medal. Remember that you are unique, and sometimes the path to a goal for yourself goes a completely different way than anyone else, it may take longer, but the path will be perfectly you. You are the best at being you.

Third is a Do-Over device. I'll bet you're asking, "Why talk about a Do-Over, when we are just starting out?" The reason is you know its there. Sometimes we put so much pressure of perfection the first time on a new journey, that we completely give up, if we mess up along the way. Never give up, but do use a Do-Over if you need to. Note: There are quite a few in the backpack for you.

Fourth is a Journal. You will have to supply this. It could be made of paper, electronic, etc, but try to capture how you felt along the journey. There will be highs, lows, success and do-overs, but all of those moments make up the journey, and you should capture it all down somewhere.

Fifth is power and control of your future. Many times we feel trapped in our situations, but know we have the power to make decisions that will control our future. You have that power and control. It's up to you, to use it.

Finally, is support. Not just me, but everyone who decides that today is the day to do things differently. Picture millions of voices in your backpack cheering you on. Even though you may feel alone, just know that you are not. We are here to give you options, advice and cheer you on your journey. We are here, but as you walk this new path, I hope you will find the strength inside yourself to realize that you can do anything you want to do, and today is a great day to start.

So, you have begun, and you have your backpack. Next time, we will talk about goals. Congratulations, here we go!