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You want to make changes in your life. It's the beginning of another year, and maybe you've made New Year's resolutions, but somehow you just can't quite get where you want to go. Sometimes the hindrances are beyond your control. Health issues, financial shortages, lack of time or access to tools or resources, are just a few of the things that can stand between you and your goals.
But sometimes, the obstacles are between your own two ears. What do you believe? Do you believe you'll screw it up? Are you convinced that you lack the willpower?
Becoming aware of the self-fulfilling prophecies that are landing you in the ditch can be half the battle. Then, of course, the other half is taking this new self-awareness, and striding forward.
1) I Don't Have What It Takes
Maybe you've tried to quit smoking before and are still puffing. Perhaps you've been trying to lose the same 20 pounds for several years worth of New Year's resolutions. Is your candy drawer still full of the same favorites and dream-killers that you've been stashing in there for too long?
Okay. You haven't made it yet. But it's only failure if you quit trying.
Don't ask yourself, what if I can't do it ... again? Visualize the sweetness of success if you manage to pull it off this time.
2) I Don't Know How
Very few things come naturally, without effort and without being taught. Why should learning to walk away from your pet vices be any different?
It isn't. Be prepared that things are going to feel ... uncomfortable. If you've been a couch potato all your adult life, putting on your running shoes, grabbing your yoga mat and heading out to a class, or working out to a DVD at home are all going to feel foreign.
Your body may hate it ... at first. But if you'll live with the strangeness of this new experience, you just might get to like it.
This is a great era, learning of all kinds is at your finger tips if you have access to a computer keyboard. Can't afford or can't get to a class? Don't have a clue how to do this yoga asana or that tai chi posture? Interested in learning about healthier eating? The Internet is a treasure trove of information and instruction, as well as support from others on the same path as you.
Don't know how to get to your goal? Be willing to learn and make the awkward transitions to your desired destination.
3) I'm Too Old to Change
You don't even have to be very old for this one. And, as you get older, you'll discover that "too old" is a relative term that doesn't really mean anything. At least, that has been my experience.
However ancient you may be, someone somewhere is even older. And enjoying themselves.
If you're still breathing, you're not too old. If you can still stand up and your legs still work, chances are you can go for a walk and start counting those steps. If your fingers have any mobility, you may very well be able to learn how to knit or play an instrument.
Worried that you won't look dignified amongst all the young'uns while you're trying the new moves in your aerobics or dance class? Think you're not supposed to be there at all? Think again.
If you're old enough to think you are "too old" chances are you're old enough to do what you want without caring what someone else thinks. Don't lose out because you're scared of a little thing like somebody else's opinion about it.
4) I Can't Stick to Anything
Really? How do you know that? So maybe your track record hasn't been too stellar yet. But the game isn't over until you win.
Have you won yet? No? Well then. Dust yourself off, lace up your skates, and take off, one more time.
5) I'm Not Smart Enough
Or pretty enough. Or rich enough. Or ... fill in the blank with your own personal baggage. Everybody's got some insecurities that weigh them down.
Maybe yours is a lack of a diploma, or a lack of friends. Perhaps your job makes you feel bad about yourself. Maybe your boyfriend dumped you and your parents have let you know they don't think you've got what it takes either.
All of that is beside the point. Are there things you want in your life? Are there habits you want to dump? New habits you want to build into your life?
Smarts, looks, prestige — none of these things have to outweigh your passion, your curiosity, or your desire for a better life for yourself.
You are enough. Go for it.
Visit Jody's website at http://www.ncubator.ca
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