I remembered writing the post below as part for a writing challenge five years ago. Different time. Different mindset. It is a wonder and something that is okay to do which is to look back to see how far you came. To check in with yourself periodically, you know? I do know that isn’t good to look into that rearview mirror, but I truly believe it is best to do so to learn from the past. Not to ponder on the past with the wouldas, shouldas, and couldas.

I have always been that person who was afraid to take that first step. I oftentimes will play Kelly Clarkson’s Breakaway and give into the lyrics. (Listen to song here.) I nicknamed myself Phoenix for a reason and I have to remind myself that no matter may have happened in life, that I must and will rise from the ashes stronger, smarter, and powerful.

I’ll spread my wings and I’ll learn how to fly
I’ll do what it takes ’til I touch the sky
And I’ll make a wish, take a chance, make a change
And breakaway

Out of the darkness and into the sun
But I won’t forget all the ones that I love
I’ll take a risk, take a chance, make a change
And breakaway

– Kelly Clarkson’s Breakaway

No matter what comes my way, I have to know that I must not be afraid to make a step, jump, slide, or sign into a new lease of life. How about you?

Repost.

As I think back on my past, I had realized how much I was afraid to take chances, to take risks, to just go for it. I would say to myself, “What would others think?” “Is this too much?” “Do I come across as know-it-all?” Now I’m to the point where I’m not afraid to just go for it. My dreams. My passion. My hopes and goals.

When you seek what matters to you, go for it. I’ve wasted years on my craft because I wouldn’t get support from others on how this may sound or what they thought. And, listening to others criticizing my hopes and dreams. Never again once more. I’m soaring. I’m reaching for the stars and I would like to see others do the same. It’s never fun to be at the top alone. Who do you wake up to? Who do you say good night to before closing your eyes?

I want and am taking that jump on what I strive to achieve. I’ve been down too much for too long and fighting my way out of a dark, suffocating tunnel of despair. Happiness and success are our friends. Determination and perseverance are up there as well.

I feel the wind in my face. I feel like I’m getting closer. I see that glowing light at the end of the tunnel. I know I see it, it’s something I longed for but never seen before.

So who’s with me to make that jump? Take that leap on a new lease at life that you always wanted. A life that brings you the qualities that you have searched for. Even when you have those not-so-good days, it’s okay because you are a fighter and you can get through anything you set your mind to.