By Christi Nation
“Having to start over is different from choosing to start over.” – Barton Goldsmith, Ph.D.
I recently went to visit one of my dear friends in Boston and traveled four hours to New York. We went to Central Park and saw the John Lennon “Imagine” memorial. One of his last songs “Starting Over” came to mind while we were in Strawberry Fields.
Sometimes one of our Happiness Actions is choosing to starting over. Is it easy? No, but it is cleansing and clearing. I started a whole new career last fall by starting my Nation Training & Development company. Choosing an opportunity to use my 25 years of experience and tailor it to others’ business and nonprofit needs has been a dream for quite a while.
Psychology Today states, “Starting over is about giving yourself a chance at real happiness. You will have to be brave and get good at new things, but how bad can that be? At the very worst, you will acquire the skills you need to start on the next project.”
Bravery, that’s the real key. Yes, it can be scary, but it IS exhilarating to see what new possibilities there are.
Until next time, here are your Happiness Actions:
If you want to try something new in your personal life or career, outline your plans, set a budget, and take baby steps.
Know that starting over does not mean you must proceed at the speed of light. It can be at your own pace.
Put on your bravery cap. Sometimes the risk is worth the reward.
It is my hope this column will encourage you to choose to start over, change something, or try something new to keep your happiness.
Christi Nation is the author of Happiness Actions and President of Nation Training & Development. She helps businesses and nonprofits with getting and keeping customers and donors through her 20 years of experience in training, conference speaking, marketing, fundraising, and sales.
