New phases or life changes can be self-imposed or thrust upon us in a blink of an eye.  While the fallout may be emotionally jarring, new beginnings can be seen as opportunities for growth and can be exciting!

When I decided to return to school and become a Holistic Nutritionist, I had no idea what or how that would look like.  At age 53, all I thought about was that I needed a change.  Of course, I had my doubts and my worries … Who was I to do this?  You can read all about my thought process on returning to school here. 

If you’re facing a new phase in your life, you might be feeling a bit nervous, anxious or downright freaked out! Will it work out? Was this the right decision? Can I do this?  Whether it’s a new job, a new relationship or moving across the city or across the country, here some tips for making the most of your fresh start.

Don’t Fear Failure

Fear of failure is … well a huge fear. Many people are so scared they’ll mess up or do something wrong, they never try anything new. That’s a real shame because unless you take a few risks, you won’t get anywhere, and you’ll never reach your true potential.

While fear of failure can paralyze you, failure is actually quite important.  Without failure, you’ll never know how success feels.  We need to reframe failure as a lesson in what not to do next time. If you make a mistake or something doesn’t work out, you’re a step closer to success. Sometimes you fail … but you always grow.

Talk to People

Did you know that most opportunities come from outside your usual network? Be open to new possibilities by talking to people you don’t know. From a casual conversation in the coffee queue to chatting to the person in the next seat at a conference dinner, you never know who you’re about to connect with and where that connection might lead. Be approachable, be polite, and make new friends.

In our age of digital existence, it also won’t hurt to reach out virtually to people on social media either.  Don’t keep your new project a secret.  You just never know who is watching and what they have to offer you or what you can offer them.

Know What You Stand For

Whether you’re aware of it or not, you have your own set of personal values. Make those values conscious and write your own personal mission statement or manifesto. What are your core beliefs? What is your purpose in life? Once you know what you stand for, you can align your actions and focus on your path to success. Think of it as your own personal roadmap.

Be Aware of Your Personal Biases

Successful people don’t let their personal opinions get in the way of achieving their goals. Your opinions are not the same as your values. Values are the bedrock of what’s important in your life. You can have an opinion about sports or politics or how you prefer your steak, but don’t confuse views with what’s best for you. If a nontraditional opportunity comes up, think it through and work out in your own mind if it’s in your best interest.

Celebrate Your Successes

It’s essential to celebrate the milestones as you check them off on the way to achieving your goals. Celebrating small successes keeps your motivation and your energy high. It also makes those big life goals seem a bit less daunting. High-five yourself for everything you check off your to-do list, and you’ll soon find yourself celebrating the big wins.

Beginning a new phase in life can be daunting.  However, by taking a deep breath and thinking about and implementing the above tips, you’ll soon be cruising along smoothly and fabulously! 

Until next time!

Yours in health and wellness,

Francine Alleyne (RHNP™)

Holistic Nutritionist, Registered Holistic Nutrition Practitioner™

Email: fran@francinealleyne.com

Website: http://www.midlifehealthy.com

Join my Facebook Group, Midlife Healthy Daily!

Instagram: @wellness.with.fran

DISCLAIMER: Please consult your healthcare practitioner if you are experiencing any symptoms.  I am not a doctor. This post and anything else you find on my website is intended for informational, educational and self-empowerment purposes ONLY and is not intended to treat or diagnose any condition or disease.