Have you ever gone to bed at night feeling like you were busy all day, but still got nothing done? Perhaps it is not a case of not finishing tasks, but of putting your energy into the wrong things. What would you have done if you thought this was your last chance to do it? Where do you put your passion? What do you devote your energy to? None of us will live forever- all we have is now. What do you want to be remembered for? How do you want to impact the world? I know that my raison d'etre is to live a life that empowers, inspires, and enlivens others. I am grateful that God has given me this purpose, and I try to utilize every minute of my life in dedication to this goal. Don't take another day, or another person, for granted. What can you do right now that will matter tomorrow?

Have you ever recounted a memory with someone only to hear that they had had an entirely different experience? How is that possible? I'm not asking you to look at the world through rose-colored glasses, nor am I imploring that you always be a glass half full personality. However, I challenge you to take advantage of perspective this week. Challenge your negativity. Ask yourself, "Is there another way to view this situation?" If you look for the good in people, that is generally what you find! (And visa versa...) This week, approach life with an attitude of gratitude, thoughtfulness, and wonder- and let me know what happens!

There are times in life when you must work with out a net. What does that mean? That the only way forward is a chance you have to take with no promise of safety or success. It is in these moments when our true character is tested. When we must either face our fears and jump, or remain stagnant. Let me tell you, life offers no promises. Just because you feel more secure in your present state, change is inevitable. In fact, change loves to occur right when you least expect it. Instead of falling victim to fate, choose to create your life. Forge your own path where no exists. Leap into the unknown with aplomb, passion, and vigor. Embrace the complexities and obstacles that you come across. Have faith- in yourself and in God- and anything is possible.

Often, when faced with the daunting task of change, even the most motivated person can become overwhelmed with where to start. You don't have to have all the answers now. Make them up as you go along. Ask for help along the way. Forge ahead, traversing where there is no path. Go into the dark, and become the light that shines the way. Most importantly, begin your journey. Anywhere is the right place. Anytime is the right time.

We can make all the plans in the world, but life will continue to throw us curveballs. There are always bumps in the road, surprising plot twists, and inevitable challenges inherent in living. Instead of preparing for the worst, always hope for the best. Have faith that whatever may come, you will rise to the occasion and surpass all expectations.

Where do you fall on your list of priorities? If you spend all your time and energy on taking care of everyone else while neglecting yourself, you will quickly burn out- and then you're no help to anyone at all! Focusing on yourself doesn't mean you're being selfish- it means you are self-aware.

Furthermore, since when does being "selfish" have such a negative connotation? Let's define being "selfish" as meaning that you are truly mindful and present in your own life and are self-driven, self-motivated, and self-sufficient. It means that you are genuine and you know yourself. That you are a strong enough person to support, inspire, and uplift others. You take care of yourself so that you are best able to care about others.

We are all on this planet for a reason. You have an incredible gift to share with the world and the immense power to create change. Devote this year to living your life to the fullest. Dare to be great. Dare to fail. Dare to love and to face your fears and eradicate them! You are smarter than you know, stronger than you look, and more admired than you feel. Someone out there is watching you and waiting to be inspired- make it happen:)

Whether you've set some lofty aspirations for the new year or are just trying to make it another day, take a moment to feel the sparkle of possibility that is before you. We can plan all we want, but life is wrought with complications and surprises. Greet them with awe, joy, and optimism- let the adventure begin!

You have the power to choose how you react to a situation and who you become as s result of it. However, you are continually evolving and developing new qualities, skills, and traits. Allow yourself a mind that is open to possibility and let your adventure continue on.