Writing the next chapter of your life...

In business, we refer to on-going project as live documents. Each of us are like a live document. We are continuously changing as the world changes around us. You are the most important live document you will ever work on. Have you ever taken a moment to think about the changes you have gone through to get you to where you are today? We have to remember, that we can control how we change. Our thoughts, our actions, and our decisions shape who we are tomorrow.

Let’s examine the following process that can assist you on your journey to self-discovery.

Examine where you are in the present moment. This is your starting point. The present is often directly influenced by our past. Your past may influence where you are today, but that doesn’t mean you should let it influence your future. Checking in with yourself and looking at how you have evolved, is a great way to see how you are progressing and transforming (just like a live document). Analyzing where you are doesn’t mean reliving the past and dwelling on emotions. Focus on the lessons you have learned during the successes and the struggles. A separation is a good example of when someone should stop and asses where they are. In takes 2 people to tango, so asking yourself, “what did I do that I could have done differently?” This is not about shaming yourself; this is about understanding what happened to avoid repeating the same story. Then asking yourself what did you do right? Take what you have learned and move to step 2!

Use what you have learned, to influence your future. You have been through ups and downs. You have learned valuable lessons, which have gotten you to where you are now. This is your opportunity to consciously create a plan for your future. What values are important to you? What type of people do you want to be surrounded by? Where do you want to be 10 years from now? For instance, if you were in an abusive relationship, you may be working towards surrounding yourself with people that respect you. If you lost your job, job security may be an important part of your criteria, when you are seeking out a new role. If you see yourself being able to be self-employed and travelling the world, you may want to start exploring what types of jobs will allow you to have the lifestyle you desire. Determine what is important to you, who you want to be surrounded by and where you want to go. Write it down.

Take action to move you closer to where you want to be. The difference between those that get what they want and those that don’t, is action. Now is the time to find ways to live your values, meet likeminded people and find ways to get you closer to your future you. Do things you have never done – join a club, attend an event, go to that networking event that you usually avoid. By putting yourself out there, you will change and evolve. We are the sum of our experiences. When you try new things, you may not always find you connect with the people or you may decide the activity isn’t quite for you. That is Ok. With each opportunity you explore, you will be surprised to see how much you will learn about yourself. We only grow, when we are put in situations that are outside our comfort zone. What are you going to do to get yourself out of your comfort zone? Write 3 things down.

Reflect on your progress. Take time to see how you have changed, and adjust your goals. Listen to your little voice, pushing you to be better. Accept help from others as you continuously evolve and build your future. You can try meditation, a coaching session, participating in discussions with experts to help you transform into the person you want to become.

The entire process is a “learn as you go” concept. We are continuously evolving, and our process is never fully complete. You must trust yourself and the process. Remember, you deserve to spend just as much time on your live document as you would on other projects. You are the driver of your life; what your future looks like, is up to you.

#change #growing

Written by Coach Kim

Edited by Kristine Sultmanis