Today is November 1, 2020 – the first day of the 11th month of a year we’d all like to do over.
It’s also nearing the end of this presidential term, and in two days, the entire nation will be turning out to vote on whether the last four years have been a blessing that needs to continue or a curse that needs to end.
I won’t dwell on that level of change here.
This is about you.
THIS IS YOUR DAY ONE
What changes do you want or need to make in your own life?
Perhaps you’re in a rut – your career has gone stale and you no longer feel stimulated to do it; your relationship with your significant other, family member or person you’ve called friend for however long feels forced, toxic, or unfulfilling; you’ve harbored a passion for dancing, painting, cooking, or whatever and allowed fear, no time or some other excuse to keep you from pursuing it.
Well, what are you waiting for?
This is the first day of a new month – and first days are meant for starting over so let’s get to it.
DON’T OVERTHINK YOUR DECISIONS
Most times change doesn’t need any fanfare, or long preparation. You just need to decide what you want and do it. You can ALWAYS find reasons NOT to make a change right?
- I don’t have enough time.
- I’ll go back to school; start my online business; start eating healthier when I ….
- It’s too late; I’m too busy; I’m too old
Blah, blah, blah
Just do it.
LET GO OF PEOPLE, JOBS, OR ACTIONS THAT DRAIN YOU
This is a biggie because you can’t possibly find the peace, emotional stability, and productive mindset that you need if you’re hanging on to either of these situations.
It’s imperative that you examine your life and discover who and what drives you to be the best version of you and get rid of anyone or anything that injects negativity into your bubble.
And be warned: it will hurt; it will be uncomfortable, and you may want to shrink from acting. But think about this: how can you have the energy to fulfill YOU if all that negativity leaves you emotionally drained?
SET DAILY INTENTIONS
Do you keep a journal?
You don’t have to be Terry McMillian, Tina McElroy Ansa, Stephen King or Maya Angelou to keep a daily journal. (My favorite writers😊) In fact, finding 30 minutes a day to set your intentions for that day is one of the best ways to make positive changes to your life.
When you write is up to you; and punctuation, misspelled words should not be your concern. You’re not sending this to a publisher or a college professor. This is about making a promise to yourself – like this:
- Today I will keep quiet when (fill in the blank here) starts criticizing my work again. I will be confidant in my decisions and won’t feel the need to engage in debate.
- Today I will remember to not take actions or words personally.
- Today I will remember that sometimes the best lessons come from the most negative circumstances.
You see?
And if 30 minutes is too much, 15 will do. It’s all about what YOU need.
TAKE A GIANT STEP OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE
- Learn a new skill/hobby: Do you love to dance? Find a dance class – virtually or in person (just mind your mask). How about art or any level of creativity? Did you know that there are step-by-step drawing apps if you want to draw? Did you know that you can create beautiful pieces of artwork on rocks or on canvas just by using dots? And the list goes on: learn sign language; cosmetology; take a phlebotomy class; sign up for a jewelry making courses; join one of the thousands of virtual gym classes to get your health together.
- Apply for a new position at your job: There is no law that says wherever you are right now is where you must stay. Research opportunities where you work, discover/acquire the skills you need and apply for something new. No opportunities? Then it’s time for a HUGE step out of your comfort zone. For maximum happiness, your career choice should mirror your personality and be something you believe in. If where you are gives you $$$ but lacks in fulfillment and the positive energy to even go to work, it’s time for change.
Let this be your day one for change.
Change Grow SHINE! 