Don't be Sheep: go after what you want

Many of us are too concerned about appearances to actually express our real thoughts and feelings. We let ourselves be led around by the expectations of others or some preconceived notion of what our lives should "look like." Instead we ought to take some time to analyze what we want out of our lives and create a plan to make those things happen. 

If travel is a real passion of yours and you are constrained by your current situation, start looking for ways to create a life that includes travel. Maybe that means looking for another job or even changing careers. Whatever the case, you only get one shot in this life so make it count. 

Perhaps you are interested in a new position or opportunity at work. If you don't let anyone know about your desire for that position, chances are they won't ever know you were hoping to make a change. It is your responsibility to go after what you want, whatever that may be.

Think of today as your first chance to express who you want to be and tell someone about it. Work hard for the things you want and take pleasure in getting them. Don't be a sheep, instead be a billboard advertising the new and future you.

Make a List: how to embrace change

Would you like to be happier with your life? Are you looking for a new job? Would you like to be more confident? All these situations and many more really boil down to a desire for change. While the examples above are generally positive changes we know that change can be negative as well: loss of a job, a break up, being forced to change careers, etc. The common theme here is change and it is up to you to make it positive. 

Some of the best changes you can make in life start out as negative situations that you can not escape. They key is to list your greatest talents and desires as they relate to the change in your life. If you lost your job, try listing the attributes of your ideal position. What would that job be? Where would you work? What type of environment would you like to work in? Focusing on how you can improve your situation should provide you with a set of guidelines with which you can embrace this change and how you can better yourself in the end. 

Making a list is important because it may highlight skills or characteristics of which you were not aware. Are you good with people? Do you like solving problems? Are you good at math? Answering these types of questions will help fill your list with those hidden talents and desires that make you, well you. Knowing your strengths as well as your weaknesses gives you a roadmap that can help lead you to the perfect scenario.

Think of your current situation as being slightly broken... then describe what your "fixed" state would look like. Would you have more friends? Would you have a better job? Being able to visualize this "fixed" state gives you a target to strive for. Without a clear picture of what you want, you may drift into repeating past mistakes or even making new blunders. It is much like going on vacation: if you don't have a map you may end up anywhere. If your map is detailed and thorough enough you may end up in that perfect place.