The first step.

Have you ever just known that you need to do or change something? Honestly, it makes no difference what it is. It could be a new job, a habit, starting a business, or a difficult conversation. Regardless of what it is for you, the negative feelings that surface are the same. With such negativity swirling around you, it makes it downright frightening to take that first step.

All sorts of fear and insecurities creep in. Doubt rears its ugly head, shaking your confidence and leaving you questioning your abilities. It'll remind you of past failures and hurts, only to try to keep you chained to the fear and familiarity that you are accustomed to. It's a deceitful, destructive force that does not want what's best for you. It will do anything to keep you from making the change or doing what you know needs to be done. 

I've experienced and felt all of this way too many times in the past. It's kept me uncomfortably comfortable, drowning in my insecurities, fears, and doubts. It left me paralyzed, unable to move forward or stand up for myself, and uncapable of speaking my truths. I know that by remaining in this box of delusion and believing the lies for so long, that I was only doing more damage to myself than good. I wasn't living; I was merely existing.

It's an extremely difficult place to pull yourself out of, but it can be done. You can rip apart that box of delusion, demolish the lies, and free yourself. It will be challenging, and you'll want to give up. You have to push past the insecurities and uncertainty of taking that first step by gathering all the courage and strength within yourself. It'll require a great deal of persistence, dedication, and patience. You'll need to be truthful with yourself as you ask yourself difficult questions. 

I asked myself, "What's scarier? Remaining in the uncomfortable comfort zone, knowing what my tomorrows look like, or taking that first step out into the unknown and initiating change?" I pondered that for a while and realized that I was more afraid of not taking that first step. It was horrifying to entertain the thought of living my life with doubts, insecurities, and fears. There's no beauty or wonder in a life like that.

I haven't looked back since that moment. I took that first step, and a whole new world of possibilities has opened up. It has taken me on a journey of self-discovery and growth. Allowing me to explore different avenues that I never would have before. It awakened a childhood passion that burns brighter today that it ever has. I remember who I am and am in head over heels in love with myself. I overcame the fear of steeping into the unknown and the unknown has embraced me, setting me free, and letting me express myself authentically and with fear. 

I encourage and hope you to do the same. Face your fears head-on. Take that first step. I promise, you won’t regret it. Embrace the journey with all its uncertainties and challenges, for it is in these moments that you will discover your true strength and potential. Remember, every step forward, no matter how small, is a victory over the doubts that once held you back. Trust in yourself, and let the unknown become a canvas for your dreams and aspirations. You have the power to transform your life—one courageous step at a time.