Have you ever wondered, if only I did “XYZ,” I would be so much happier? Or, you wished you continued your studies or applied for that dream job; perhaps it wasn’t the right timing, or you felt you weren’t good enough.

Why do we tell ourselves that we can’t start something until we’re good at it? Or— take on that project we’ve been thinking about but can’t seem to get started? Obsessing about taking classes for “that thing” we want to do, or perhaps you’ve done the work but are afraid of being judged?

Honestly, I still get nervous before clicking “publish,” doubting my abilities each time. Will my readers appreciate my stories? Or— will they read it at all?

See what I just did? I doubted myself! But, goddamit, I’m doing this for me! Right?

After all, why should we give a hoot what anyone thinks?

With anything new comes doubt. Look, I’m stating the obvious, but taking the first step is the beginning; without it, you will never know the outcome.

“There are five important things for living a successful and fulfilling life: never stop dreaming, never stop believing, never give up, never stop trying, and never stop learning.”

Roy Bennett

Show up for yourself, do that thing you want to do.

What fills your cup or gets you excited? Are you someone who loves to whip up stacks of key lime pie just because? Maybe you’re funny, or catch yourself singing in the shower and everywhere in between? Perhaps a master at something (besides your pet), or have a creative eye for design but are exhausted moving the same pieces of furniture around the house?

How do we find our passion?

It’s in you. Forget what you’ve been told; what do you want to do? You do you. That said, I met a young woman who recently completed her law degree but decided she wanted to pursue a career in acting instead, which surprised me. Mostly, I loved her enthusiasm and that she believed in a dream and was brave enough to pursue it.

However, discovering your passion isn’t always easy or obvious. Finding that one thing (by the way, you can have more than one) that excites you may sound simple, but it can be a struggle for some.

Believe in yourself, and don’t give up. I know; easy to say, and screw-ups are expected, and timing is everything. And, for those doubters out there, I’m not suggesting you quit your job to become a rock star (although it would be fun). No. Start small, and don’t worry that you don’t have all the answers yet. It’s a passion project until it’s more.

Why bother? It’s too late for me.

This excuse is total CRAP!

Any decade of your life provides an opportunity for self-improvement and growth. New beginnings can occur at any age.

“It’s not hard. You’ve just never done it before. Know the difference. Engage your curiosity. Shift your perspective.”

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@nikkibaxendale photography