What if you are not in danger and it is just your active inner critic holding you back from one thing you keep thinking about? The title of Susan Jeffers book says it all “Feel Fear and Do It Anyway.” Take time to watch kids. I have seen some of most uncoordinated kids end up as good athletes. The more you do something better you get. Kids prove it over and over again while learning to walk, talk, read, write, ride bike, climb, speak in front of others, draw, dance, study, play sports, etc. Consider that at birth we were given every human trait to access when we choose. Don’t just choose one of these traits and make that your identity. Practice being more courageous and you will become more courageous. Yes, it is a good idea to orient your life around your strengths. However, you know that thing you really want to try but for whatever reason you keep talking yourself out of it? Try it out with low expectations. Just do it for experience of doing it. It is a thrill when you step outside box and do something new. The first 30 minute talk a gave was a huge step for me. I went with attitude that I wanted to finish, touch one person, and have it be a learning experience, and I did. What a high! Did I wow audience? No. Did I learn, gain experience, gain contacts, get a new client, and receive comments and notes of support? Yes. Start with small steps. Let me know how it turns out.

Do not allow fear to paralyze and control you. Be your own biggest supporter. Embrace thrills that life has to offer... Starting Now!

Taking Action: Live in present, learn, and gain strength. Analyze message fear is sending you. Are you in danger? What are you really afraid of? Take action. Look at all of your choices. New actions lead to new results. Step beyond your comfort zone. Be your own greatest supporter. Have a Happy Halloween!

Copyright 2002, Beth A. Tabak. All rights reserved.

5- Simplify- Every task must be handled. You can do it, delegate it, or dump it. Eliminate what does not serve your priorities. What can you get help on and delegate? This is a good time to get rid of those items on your Not That Again list. Hire someone to decorate or a housekeeper for month. Have everyone bring a dish instead of you doing it yourself. Get your family involved and remember that things don't have to be perfect. Let go. This will give you space to embrace what you truly enjoy.

6- Set a budget- Develop a budget that feels good. There are lots of ways to make a holiday special without adding stress to your budget. Show people they are appreciated. Plan family fun and activities. You can let someone know what is special about them in a card, letter, cassette, or video. Get creative. Every year I have one gift for kids to find. I wrap empty boxes inside each other. When they open last box there is a clue telling them next step. Don't let a tight budget steal your joy. Make it fun!

7- Set boundaries- Decide now what you will not tolerate. Write it down. Remember your Not That Again list? Is there someone who ropes you into things you don't want to do? Have conversation that's overdue. No is no. If someone keeps asking after you said no, they are attempting to control you. Setting boundaries is about educating people on how they can treat you. Is there someone you need to educate?

8- Schedule time for planning and yourself- When is a good time to update your plan? When can you take time for you? Put it on your calendar each week thru end of year. Keep appointments. Add this line to your daytimer as a reminder: "I have an appointment in honor of myself this ______(day) at __:__ (time) to do something special for me because I sooooooo deserve it!"

9- Give in a way that gives you joy vs. obligation- When you give in a way that comes naturally to you, you stay in integrity with who you are. Therefore, you are able to share your own special gifts with others. When you are doing what you love life clicks. If there is a situation you are dreading, think about how you can tweak it and handle it in a way that would bring you more joy.

10- Take action now- Begin today so that you are tying up your last bows well before pitter patter of hoofs on rooftop. Keep your holiday journal and map close at hand. The sooner you complete your tasks, sooner you can sit back, smile, and enjoy season!

What I want for you is to take action to move one step forward to prepare for holidays...Starting Now!

Copyright 2002, Beth A. Tabak. All rights reserved.