Is it time for a Leap of Faith?

Do you tend to stay where it's safe, comfortable, familiar and predictable... OR are you considering taking a momentous leap towards that thing you've dreamed about for so long?!!!!

Taking a leap of faith can be a gateway to something new, something that excites your senses and makes your heart race a little (or a lot) faster.

It may be a new career, a new lifestyle, a change in direction or obtaining something of significant importance to you. It could be to finally address a health issue that has been troubling you for some time. Perhaps it's deciding to move away from a toxic situation or person or deciding to start living as the real you...

Whatever it is for you, the idea is there, in the back of your mind, calling you to take action, tempting you with the "what ifs" and a myriad of possible tempting outcomes.

So.... WHAT IF you follow this dream, take that leap and.... actually succeed in it? Imagine how you'd feel and what life could be like if you took that chance, made that move - if you deliberately embraced and actioned this long-held dream of yours...

Ready to get started? Consider doing these things...

1. Ask someone wise...

Let's jump forward into the future and speak to the version of you that you will be in 20 years' time.

Close your eyes and imagine you are sitting with the '20 years older version of you'. Ask a few questions, share some thoughts, discuss your big idea. They have a great deal to tell you if you tune in and listen.

What does the '20 years from now version of you' tell you about your dream or idea and the future that they can see? No doubt there'll be encouragement, tips, information and perhaps even advice. Take a moment to process this.

Hint: don't overthink this exercise, their voice will come through loud and clear without a lot of effort if you relax and let it speak to you.

2. Find a mentor...

Consider visiting, following, reaching out and/or connecting with those who are already doing the thing you want to do. Perhaps they've travelled the same path, made the leap and are living their dream.

They have valuable advice and experience and may be open to assisting you in some way. It goes without saying - be polite, curious and grateful for any information you receive. Do your research ahead of time and record any gems as you discover them.

3. Research, research and then do some more research...

Do your homework.

Read, learn, compare, ask, and repeat. There is always time for more learning and awareness when it comes to achieving the dream. Find out the details you'll need to know.

Immerse in the dream. Test the hypothesis, survey your market, trial the change, test run the idea, practice the reality. Preparation, as you know, brings courage, confidence, resilience and insight.

4. Planning for success...

Record all of the thoughts, encouragement and advice the older version of you, your mentors and research has provided. Keep notes, links, learning, contacts and ideas recorded in one place.

Here are some strategies to help you to plan your pathway:

• Create a clear vision : Consider creating a "vision board" or notebook of your dream and what it will look like when you've achieved it. Use photos, colour, images and diagrams along with quotes and other visual cues. Be specific and be thorough.

• Determine your "why" : Link it to your values, who you know yourself to be, your passion and what drives you. Publish this somewhere prominent so you can be reminded of it each day.

• For and against : Compile a 'pros and cons' list. What realistic barriers/pitfalls may arise, and how could these be managed, minimised or overcome? Conversely, what positives will this dream bring into your world and how will you navigate the changes they will bring? Investigate each in detail.

Pros	Cons

• The Steps : Detail the small and large steps it will take to accomplish the dream. Work backwards - firstly specify your chosen dream outcome - imagine you're already there. Now list all of the tasks you need to carry out in order to come to this place. Record it in any order, you can sort it into priority order later. (You can then commit to which actions to take first and how to best use your time. i.e. doing one small thing each day/week towards your dream).

• The Resources : Write down what you'll need - the specific materials, funds, support, time, knowledge and information. Develop a plan for obtaining each within your Steps plan (see previous point).

5. Emotional times ahead...

It may be useful to consider what you will lose or sacrifice as part of your leap of faith.

Any change can bring a feeling of loss or grief, so consider making peace with the things you'll need to farewell. Be prepared for others (even well-meaning family and friends) to see your dream as a threat or as unrealistic... to them. Please note: some may try to talk you out of it, to move you back to their own vision of your safety.

Think about the emotional changes that both the journey and the dream may bring. What long and short-term changes might there be to your relationships, your focus, your time and other established aspects of your life? Consider how you might approach hurt feelings, misunderstandings and losses as you undertake this 'leap of faith'?

Why now?

This idea of yours has taken shape over time and maybe the timing is right to take action now.

Ask yourself what factors need to be considered in order to make a start. What small steps need to be taken, and can you start taking them today? Avoid an 'all or nothing' approach, this change will no doubt be a slow and steady series of intentional tiny changes, learning, exploration and tasks.

Are you leaping towards or away from something?

This is an important distinction.

Are you leaping towards something you want to embrace and immerse yourself in... OR are you leaping away from a life, circumstance or situation that no longer serves you?

If it's the latter, this can be great motivation,but just be sure to keep each change achievable and safe for you (emotionally, financially and physically). Speak to a counsellor if you're unsure. Check in with yourself on a regular basis to ensure you are leaping with intention and purpose - so that you don't simply leap over to another only slightly more favorable (or equally unfavorable) place. You deserve more and this is your chance to make every move, every step, count.

I want you, my lovely reader, to reach for the stars and be amazed with what you're capable of. You can do this. It's a great time to make that first tiny step towards the leap.

Ready to take that next step? You don't have to do this alone - counselling is a great way to unpack the dream, the emotions, the resilience and all the steps needed to get there.

Carolyn xx

#leapoffaith #changecounsellor #yourbestlife #babystepstosuccess #livethedream

Here's a little about me:

I've been a registered Counsellor in practice since 2016. I specialise in relationships, grief and life transitions, assisting clients to self-reflect, process past hurts, increase emotional skillsets and improve their lives. I see clients in person in Whittlesea Vic, or via Zoom or phone. I am also a Clinical Supervisor, assisting other Counsellors to do their best work. Please feel welcome to follow the links to find out more or place a booking.

Learn more about counselling here: www.talktocarolyn.com

Read more blog posts here: www.talktocarolyn.com.au/blog

Visit Carolyn's Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/counsellingbycarolyn

Book in for assistance here.