If there is one thing that I could inspire in you, it would be the conviction that inside of you is the solution to any problem or challenge you might face. Your body knows what it needs to be healthy and strong, your mind knows what limiting thoughts are holding you back, your heart knows what dreams would bring more joy and purpose to your life.

And only you know these answers. This is not to say that outside help isn’t useful (more on this later), but in the end, only you know the answers that are right for you. Don’t spend too much time looking elsewhere, because it won’t yield the results you’re looking for.

So why is it then, if the answers are right there in front of us, that we can spend so much time struggling to change, caught in the same pain, unsure of how to move forward?

There are two big stumbling blocks:

1. You have to be able to hear. You have to have enough quiet space in your life and in your head to actually hear the messages that are waiting there for you. The clamor and noise of the outside world is relentless in its distraction — you must take time to tune it out. And if you’re carrying around too much of your own baggage, you will be so full that there’s no room for anything else to come through.

2. You have to be willing to accept what you hear even if it’s not what you want. But be assured, the longer you fight with the truth, ignoring it and pushing it back down, the longer you will struggle and the more painful it will be in the end.

The way forward:

Create the quiet space you need to listen to yourself. Meditate. Go for a walk. Turn off your cell phone. Be alone.

When you are quiet and still, then ask your questions and see what arises.

Tricks I have learned:

Have the thought, double check with your heart – Our minds are so tricky! They tell us all sorts of stories and can make us believe anything. Our hearts help us discern the truth. So whenever you suspect something is fishy, say it out loud and then see how it feels in your body. Get in the practice of asking yourself – Do I want this to be my truth? If not, take a moment right then and there to start adjusting your thinking.

Ask for support – An outside perspective can help you to see your blind spots and lovingly call you on your BS. Get your support team in place, to cheer you on, keep you accountable, and walk alongside when you begin to doubt.

Know the power that you possess

Whatever it takes to create change, step by tiny step, you can do it. Remind yourself every day that you are worthy of all that you desire, and more. This is what I see for you, for all of us.