“Life is change. Growth is optional. Choose wisely.” – Unknown
I was reminded of this quote during two conversations I had this past week; one with a friend and another with a business partner. Both of them have gone through the loss of a parent in the past several months and both are dealing with that life change differently.
In both instances, they began their journey by isolating themselves from their friends, family and those who love them, when they felt overwhelmed by the circumstances. They both are ready to move forward and get back in the game of life. In their own way, each is embracing the change and seeing it as an opportunity to grow and develop personally.
My friend said “I can be angry about the past, or I can choose to forgive. My anger and resentment was only hurting me, no one else was even affected by it. They just went on living their lives, without my attitude impacting them in any way. I choose to no longer isolate myself either. I am ready to get back in the game of life”
My business partner on the other hand didn’t want to burden the people who care about her with the challenges she was facing. She truly thought of her struggles as a burden to others, instead of realizing so many people wanted to be there to help her through her challenges. Starting now, she plans to reach out to people, instead of trying to deal with her struggles by herself.
You see, we have a choice that we can make every time we are faced with a change we weren’t expecting, whether that be a life change such as losing a loved one or a small change like a disappointment or something you had hoped for just didn’t turn out how you intended. How will you choose? Will you choose to grow through adversity and let it wisely direct your next steps?
The choice is yours to make. I wish you growth and wise choices as you continue through your life’s journey.
“Plan for the future because that’s where you are going to spend the rest of your life.” Mark Twain
Do you have a written plan or a roadmap that spells out where you are headed? Having a clear plan keeps you mindful of how well you are progressing towards your goal. Even in the event of a detour, you will be able to map out an alternative route IF you are living and working from a plan. When you look at others who are successful and happy, they make plans and live life with intention and direction.
Today’s affirmation is designed to encourage you to take the reins, make smart plans for your future and live the life you were designed to live beginning today:
I make smart plans for my future.
Success Is Your Destiny If You Make & Work a Plan. Here’s how I do it.
I like to live my life according to a plan. It is difficult to end up in a good place by accident. By having plans and goals, I increase the likelihood of having a wonderful life. I want my life to be an example of what is possible.
I choose to avoid living my life by default. I move toward something good, rather than move away from something painful. Just trying to avoid pain means I lack a plan.
I take the necessary time each week to re-evaluate my progress and make adjustments to my plans based on that evaluation. If I keep tweaking my approach, success is mine. Success is my destiny.
At night, I think about everything I did that day to put my plans into action. I ask myself how I can enhance my plan and the actions I am taking each day. I visualize being successful and fall asleep in the knowledge that I am actively bettering my life.
My plans for the future are thoughtful and intelligent. I put a lot of careful consideration into my goals. My goals are perfect for me. My plans are in line with my values and beliefs. I know my life is getting better as I take steps to follow my plans.
Self-Reflection Questions:
1. What are my three most important goals?
2. What are my plans for achieving those goals?
3. How much time do I spend each day toward achieving those goals?
Today, I focus on my plans for the future. My renewed plans are congruent with my values. I am excited about what lies ahead. I make smart plans for my future.
Your ability to delay gratification is one of the best indicators of how successful you will be over the long haul. When you develop the discipline to focus on your future goals, your day-to-day decisions and actions will shift and become fuel. This doesn’t mean ignoring the present or foregoing anything that gives you immediate pleasure, but investing in your future success might require short-term sacrifice.
It does mean striking the balance between the short term and the long term and making sure the decisions you make short term don’t hinder your long term success.
Today’s affirmation will help you stay focused beyond any short term sacrifices you may have to make so you can make your goals become your reality:
My eyes are on the future.
Directing my attention towards the time ahead changes the way I think. It becomes easier to resist temptations. I become more motivated to put forth my best effort. I clarify my goals.
At work, I seek opportunities to continue my education and receive training. I take initiative and assume greater responsibility.
My leisure time is devoted to activities that can reward me in the future. I may learn a new language or start a vegetable garden. I read inspiring books. I spend time with my family and friends, solidifying our relationship and making great memories for the years ahead.
Thinking about my financial goals encourages me to save money. I set up college funds for my children and put money aside for my retirement. I stick to my budget and make wise investments.
I examine how my actions affect my health. I know that regular exercise and a nutritious diet protect my heart and make it easier to maintain a healthy weight.
I am more successful because I look ahead.
My goals and the steps I need to take are firmly planted in my mind. I am able to track my progress and adjust my strategies when needed.
I am also more resilient. I understand that my circumstances are always changing.
During difficult times, I remind myself of all the good things that are awaiting me.
Self-Reflection Questions:
1. Why is it worthwhile to exchange short term gains for long term benefits?
2. How can I balance living in the present and planning for my future?
3. What are three lifestyle changes I can make today to enhance my future well-being?
Today, I embrace my future. I am eager to invest in my future and see what happens down the road.
