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Creative Expression

A Fresh Start: Celebrate the Person You Truly Are, Right Where You Are

Opportunities to start anew don't ever expire.

By Kristi Tencarre | Posted June 3, 2008 | Updated September 8, 2019

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The fresh start for which so many of us have been waiting is here. The time is now. We always have the chance to start over, to think again of our dreams and make a plan to move them into the light.

Do not be discouraged if previous resolutions went unmet. If you want them to join today's dreams, simply put them back on your list. Consider why you were not able to achieve those dreams before. Brainstorm ways in which you can move forward, remembering the lessons learned, and bring these dreams closer to reality.

Do you want to travel? How about saving a specified amount off each paycheque — you can set up an automatic deposit system so that you don't even miss the money. Do you want to be published? How about joining a writing group, attending a writing conference or taking a writing course, subscribing to writing magazines (Writer's Digest is a good one), subscribing to RSS feeds of creativity and author's blogs that have weekly writing prompts, and learning how to write professional query letters… and then sending them out! Do you want to change careers? Research your dreamed-of profession and then make small steps towards realizing that dream. Talk to someone already in the field, could you volunteer first in order to ensure you really do want to make the switch?

There are so many good things that will happen as you move forward, as long as you open your eyes to see them. Attitude is so much a part of "the good life."

Be gentle with yourself. Too many of us have such high expectations for our lives that not even we can live up to our own standards, let alone anyone else! We must learn to celebrate the person we really are. Wherever we are. We must be true to ourselves, authentic.

Consider the ways you can use your gifts and talents for the good of humanity, even if it does not make you any money. That can be your gift to the world this year. Believe you can make a difference. Remember: anything new, good or bad, begins with one person. When that person gets a following, it becomes a movement, but there are many grassroots movements that have only one person propelling them forward.

Engage your dream wholeheartedly. Vincent Van Gogh once wrote: "I am seeking. I am striving. I am in it with all my heart." Enter your whole being into your dream and see if that is not the key that makes the difference.

Believe in yourself. You are the only one who intimately knows your talent. You are the only one that can bring your talent into the light. Think positively, dream big dreams, work towards your goal, and achieve your success… even if it takes your entire lifetime. Be determined! Do not give up! Nothing great was ever achieved without first dreams and then hard work.

Remember the words of Mahatma Gandhi: "Every worthwhile accomplishment, big or little, has its stages of drudgery and triumph; a beginning, a struggle, and a victory." Go out there and be victorious!

©2008 Kristi Tencarre. All rights reserved.

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