Each new year is an opportunity to make changes, set new goals and begin afresh.

The idea of a fresh start can seem daunting, even overwhelming. It doesn’t need to be this way. Whether you want to move on from a stagnant state (away from toxic habits or relationships) or find yourself at an abrupt end or are faced with a big change (moving to a new place or starting a new job) – you are not alone. Starting over or making new beginnings is very much a part of everyone’s life. Everyone needs a fresh start once in a while – sometimes more often than we would like! Here are a few pointers to help you not just in getting started with your fresh start, but making sure you follow through!

#1 Make a plan

Before you embark on the journey to change, identify what is it that you want to change. At the same time, think of what would you not want to change, or what do you hope stays the same. This will give you perspective on the area you need to work on. Picture an outcome you want to work towards. 

“When my grandmother was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer, I had to decide on how I can help her with the financial support she needs in order to buy medicines and other stuffs. I updated my resume and start browsing available jobs online, i know this time i needed to land a job that is worth it in order for me to provide my lola’s medication.

That is my goal, to become financially equipped and be able to help my family.”

#2 One step at a time

““The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret to getting started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks into small manageable tasks and then starting on the first one.” 

— -Mark Twain

Now that you have put a finger on what you want to work on, it’s time to start thinking about how you will get there. Break down your plan into simpler steps. If your goal is to be able to speak confidently in front of an audience, start small. 

“One morning, I received a txt message informing me about a job offer from a manning agency. Followed by an email regarding my skype interview. Luckily i passed the two sets of interview that week, i was very happy to call my lola about how the interview went. She just can’t stop praising and thanking the Lord for helping me pass the interview. Weeks have passed and i received the last notice for my final interview from hongkong. This time i needed to prepare with lots of prayer believing God’s power to bless me with the knowledge that i need.

And yes! i passed the final interview ,i was very happy when i received the acceptance and offer letter from the company.

#3 Step out of your comfort zone

Imagine your comfort zone – not as a physical space – but a set of patterns that form your routine way of thinking and behaving. The idea of stepping out of your comfort zone is stressful, simply because you are stepping away from the familiar, known patterns that you have grown accustomed to. However, you can’t change if you keep doing the same things or do things the same way. Your goal will require you to make changes to existing habits. Be prepared to try new ways and breaking free of current patterns.

I started to comply with the necessary requirements, taking all trainings needed. Thank you Lord for providing me financially that i afford to enroll multiple training class. I made sure that i excel in every exam i took. Facing my biggest fear of heights , i made it to the last fiercest practical training, to jump into the water. I did it for my goal, and for my Lola.

#4 Find your fit

There isn’t one right way of getting to your goal. What works for one person, may not give the same results for another. Keep trying different techniques and patterns till you find one that works best for you.

Looking back, there are some decisions i made in the past that made me regret on things that i should have done differently . But those things inspire me to become better, this time i wanted to make things right.

Don’t compare yourself with others and get disheartened. Try different ways. See what fits you best. Some people feel more productive when they have a definite deadline while others are unable to function fully due to the stress. Some find it useful to talk to people in the same field or working towards similar goals. 

There might be times when despite your best efforts, you don’t seem to be making any progress. Sometimes, the hurdles are bigger than you imagined and if you are feeling stuck even after trying really hard, know that there are resources available to help you make the change. 

Every person, their life – along with its challenges – and the way they cope, is unique. I hope that reading this has helped you gain some clarity about making a fresh start this coming year, and wish you success in achieving your goals!