A NEW YOU
“It is never too late to change – wherever you are, is the entry point.” – Sant Kabir.
There comes a time in our lives when many of us feel the need to reinvent ourselves, to bring back the “joi de vivre” the exuberance, in your life. You could be feeling generally dissatisfied with your life-experiencing stagnation, boredom, stuck-in-the-rut feeling. Or it could be a major shift, like relocating to a new city or country; changing your job or profession; a break-up in a relationship or the death of a loved one. You could be seeking a lifestyle change, a career shift or a physical appearance make-over.
So, how does one go about changing things, making the best of oneself and the situation one is in.
Begin by changing the way you think-your mindset and attitude towards life and people may need readjustment. But remain true to your core personality and retain what is good and positive. It will require willpower and effort. Do not be afraid to move away from your comfort zones, habits and self-perception.
“You cannot remake yourself without some pain, for you are both the stone and the sculptor.”- Carl Sandburg.
Imagine what you want your life to be like, understand what you really want and realize that the change in your lifestyle and personality can impact the people in your life. Involve them in your mission. In case you are not exactly sure about what you want, check out the various options available-try out several things initially. Tap into your basic strong points – the skills, expertise and insights that you have acquired over the years. Evaluate your current physical, emotional and financial status to develop realistic plans.
Do something you have always felt passionately about (often secretly), but did not have the opportunity or means; or perhaps the family wanted you to choose something more conventional – well, you could take the plunge now…unclip your wings! Follow your dreams and passions and renew your zest for life.
Intellectual, spiritual and emotional growth should never cease. The day you feel you know everything and stop learning and evolving, you become old.
Dilip Chauhan-61 and wife Puja-57 from Ujjain, undertook a motorcycle journey across India, on a modest budget.
Be resilient- there will be hurdles, setbacks and self-doubt. Overcome the irrational fears and focus on your aspirations. Have faith and belief that you are moving in the right direction. Realize your full potential, be enthusiastic and optimistic about the outcome. Do not be diffident about acquiring new hobbies, skills, brand new appearance (there is no age-appropriate style really, listen to your inner muse and please yourself-whatever makes you happy), participating in new spheres of activities and adventure! Become self-reliant and confident, but do not hesitate to seek support if and when you need help or guidance. Being vulnerable is only being human!
Apart from fulfilling personal desires, you could take to social activism and participate in initiatives to give back to society in whichever way you can. It is a privilege to be able to help fellow-human beings in need. It will surely give you an immense sense of satisfaction.
Think, visualize and materialize what you desire by taking concrete, practical and positive steps. There is an enormous choice available today, touching all aspects of life. The field is wide open – even the sky is not the limit any more! Choose as you wish.
Let the fragrant, fresh winds of change blow – and re-energize yourself. The body heals with play, the mind heals with laughter and the spirit heals with joy – old Proverb.
“Live your life lightly-dance on the edges of time, like dew on the tip of a leaf.” – Rabindranath Tagore.
