When I was 24 years old I faced a dilemma. I was accepted into a school that was 8 hours from home and I wasn’t sure if I wanted to move. The thought of exploring a new world was appealing, but I didn’t want to give up the familiar things of my life. It wasn’t until my aunt helped me name my reluctance—ambivalence and fear—that I eventually came to understand how to make some personal changes. When it came down to it, fear was holding me hostage.

Even though the change I struggled with was about moving away to college, I think the emotions I experienced—ambivalence and fear—are common themes in many people’s lives. Oftentimes we have mixed thoughts and feelings about change. There are good and not so good reasons for playing it safe and staying exactly where we are in life. Mustering up the courage to do something different may seem difficult, if not impossible.

I ended up taking the opportunity and moved away for school and I’m glad that I did. It was my aunt’s keen observations that gave me a “kick in the pants” to educate myself and start the process of change. As I write this posting, I wonder if there are others who are fearful about what’s around the corner. Do you feel like change is not possible? Are you paralyzed by fear?

Consider this your “kick in the pants” by me. A new life is right around the corner. It’s up to you to take the first steps. Educate yourself and be who you want to be.

“A ship in a harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.”
–William Shedd