Guess what I found tucked away in the back of my closet – a vision board I created in 2008. That year I decided to change my life and I involved myself in a multi-level marketing business selling skin care with the hopes of becoming rich and financially independent. My vision board was filled with magazine cut-outs representing the things I wanted as a result of my new career and success: a dream home, a luxury car, exotic vacations and leisure time spent sipping cocktails surrounded by my friends and family. I smiled at each image and then thought to myself: “So, what happened? Why am I not there?” We are still at the same house, NOT driving a luxurious car, still heavily relying on my nursing job to meet our financial obligations, still dreaming of a better life …

The vision board did not help much, obviously. The new business, well, I know I did not treat it as such, it was more of a hobby, I did have a real job, after all … Who knows what could have and would have happened had I really invested all my effort and time in it …

As the years went by, I learned a lot, though. I realized that no vision board or New Year’s resolutions, or list of goals would guarantee this new life. The only thing that matters is ACTION.

A lot of what I did was pretending I was working towards a change. I bought yet another book on a start-up business, I watched motivational videos, I read blog posts and articles – all with the intent of preparing myself to take action and start working on my goals.

I finally realized it was all excuses.

I needed to stop pretending to be working on my dreams.

I needed to make a commitment and show up for myself.

I started to take action. Some of the steps I took were spontaneous, some had to be schedule. And out of new respect for myself, I’d show up at the scheduled appointment with myself and perform a planned task. It took time and effort. It was painful at times. I sacrificed watching some of my Netflix shows or going out with my girlfriends. But, a new habit of doing was created in me, and I just kept on going. Today, my mindset is different. I still read motivational books and watch videos, but I immediately put in action what I learned and it amazes me how many of new ideas and strategies I learned.

Here is a list of things you can do to make changes that do not require a major effort, but will start a new thinking and a shift in your perception of yourself and your future.

1. Clean your closet -take everything out and get rid of clothes that do nothing for you.  Donate the unwanted items, especially the too small ones – once you finally lose weight you’ll want to buy a gorgeous new outfit to celebrate yourself. For now, even if you are not at your desired size, dress well the body you do have, it serves you well every day …
2. Make your surroundings beautiful – get rid of accessories that do not enhance the look of your home but rather add to the clutter. Walk through your home as if you were a potential buyer, be objective, maybe a fresh pain job is needed, maybe update of curtains or pillows would help to liven things up a little
3. Buy fresh flowers – make it a necessity, not an indulgence. Enjoy their scent, admire the beauty of each blossom, if you can, decorate at least the most used room in your house and your office. Make it a weekly purchase and do not feel guilty about it
4. Eat great foods – healthy, nutritious meals will give you energy and satisfaction that you are doing something important for your body. Try new recipes, serve on beautiful plates and drink form pretty crystal glasses – why not?
5. Read great books – build a library that is a testimony to your interests, values and convictions. Read at least a minimum of 30 minutes a day and share with others the beautiful books you read. A well read woman is a powerful being …
6. Become a great person to talk to – learn the art of conversation. Listen carefully to the other person with a premise they know something you don’t and you can learn that through the conversation
7. Look for events you can attend – new art exhibits, lectures, go to museums and art galleries, support local student performances and treat yourself to professional shows
8. Be careful with your words – stop saying things that make you look weak, unhappy, pessimistic. Let your speech reflect the excitement you are experiencing as there are changes happening in your life that attest to your greatness

Everything we do, including what we wear, eat, and say is an expression of who we are. It’s and extension of us, thus everything matters – our clothes, our make up, our weight, the food we eat, the books we read, the way we spend our leisure time.

We deserve the best in our lives. Even small steps and actions will move you closer towards fulfilling your goals.

Be encouraged, schedule your changes and SHOW UP – you deserve it!