Create Your Ideal Life

As women, we wear many hats. We're wife, mother, daughter, grandmother, friend, and employee. We're also cook, maid, chauffeur, and bookkeeper. We're so busy being all things to all people, that we don't have time for ourselves. If you don't have time to "smell the roses," and would like to create changes in your life, then here are some things to think about to begin designing your ideal life.

Do you know what your ideal life looks like? If not, then this is the place to start. Would a different job, more free time, or a change in your relationship bring you more joy and happiness? Then start today to work on changing these areas of your life. Until you know what you want, you won't have an idea how to achieve it.

Are you self-motivated? You'll have a hard time achieving your goals if you aren't. Nobody can motivate you, but you. Others can inspire you, but only you can decide what needs to be done and do it.

Are you willing to take a risk? Change can be scary. Will you chance the unknown to go after what you want?

What are you willing to give up to achieve your goals? A dramatic change usually doesn't happen without some sacrifices.

Are you going to give up if you don't see immediate results? Change doesn't happen overnight and you are sure to face challenges. Do you want your life to change badly enough to persevere when this happens?

Do you have people that support you? If you do, then tell them what your goals are and also write them down. When you face a roadblock, look at your written goals or call a friend to remind you of what it is you want to achieve. This will help keep you focused.

Realize there will never be a "perfect" time to begin. The time will pass no matter what. Five years from now will your life still be the same, or will you have created the life you want?

Now close your eyes and picture the life you've created. What are you doing? Are you happy? How does it make you feel to have achieved your goals? Keep this picture in your mind and visualize it everyday until it becomes reality. You have the power to make your dreams come true. As M. Scott Peck said, "Until you value yourself, you will not value your time. Until you value your time, you will not do anything with it." Start today to make your life one of value and reach for the stars!