Sometimes when I can’t sleep at night, make good use of my time by looking through Pinterest for new ideas.  I came across this page recently and it made me stop and think about how true this is for my life right now.  In fact, I bet it’s pretty relevant to your life too.  Think about what you’re trying to do today, this week or even this year.  It takes small steps to get there and it’s nice to be reminded that the little things can make a big difference.

I am fighting hard for the things I want most. Sometimes I think, “Why can’t things just be easy?” It seems like I have to fight for everything I’ve ever wanted and sometimes it takes years for it to go my way.  But then I wonder if I would be as thankful for what I’ve achieved if it was all handed to me on a silver platter – probably not.  Your struggles have meaning; success will be much sweeter when you have to work for what you want.

I am taking action now. I have a lot of things in the works right now:  I’m trying to lower my cholesterol, I’m working on my healthy eating, I’m continuing my running, I’m investing time in groups that matter and I’m spending my days writing this blog.  So many things! Even though I make small steps with each of my priorities, I get excited to see how my action is pushing me on to reach my goals.

I am focusing on the next positive step. I’ve been running now for about two years.  Every morning, there is a moment where I think, “Skipping today won’t matter” and then I remember that every day, every step counts toward my end goal.  Sure, one day wouldn’t probably matter – but what needs to change is my mindset.  I’m thankful I have the time and ability to reach my goals, one literal, slow-but-dedicated-running step at a time.

I am proud to wear my truth. When you live confidently and are comfortable with your decisions and your direction – no one can stop you. I think it’s cool that the older I get, the more comfortable I seem with my life and the more I’m able to impact others with my talents, my truth and my time.  Make the decision today to be your best self, to let others see your best self and to help others with your best self.  You’ll be better for it.

I have a lot to smile about. When I was younger, I always thought that to do anything that mattered you had to be famous.  Then I look at the life I’ve built and I’m thankful for what I have.  The silly, ridiculous, unique times with my little family are experiences that I wouldn’t change for the world.  And it’s nice to be reminded of these small things on days that I feel like I don’t have much to smile about.

I am making the best of it. There is satisfaction in knowing you’ve done the best you could with what you’ve got.  Think about your current situation: Do you spend your days moaning about how unfair everything is? Or do you step in and make changes where you can? You’ll live a much happier and more fulfilled – and successful – life if you can make the best of your current situation.

I am letting go of yesterday’s stress. There are times that I’m so stressed, I wake up in the middle of the night.  I think about all of the things I need to do, all of the things that have gone wrong and my failures.  But I’ve realized what’s done is done.  3am is never a good time to solve the world’s problems, much less mine.  Which is why I spend my sleepless nights on Pinterest.  At least I’m doing something productive. You can’t change the past – but you can work towards changing the future.

There is enough time today to do something I love. I see people all of the time say, “I’m too busy!” or “I’m so stressed because I have so much to do!” And I think, what are you filling your time with? Believe me – you are not too busy to invest in the things that matter and the things you care about. Take a good, hard look at your schedule.  What if you let a few things go? You’ll be happier, more rested and more able to focus on what matters if you are selective with your time and attention.

I am priceless in someone’s eyes. Sure, this may sound like something your mom is required to say to you, but it’s true.  Who you are matters.  You have unique talents that can bless those around you, the time and energy you’ve invested in others will have a lasting impact on their life, and people believe in what you’re doing and what you can accomplish.  What you are doing right now, today, matters because you matter.

It’s not too late. My mom decided to change her career and go back to school a few years ago.  Her mentality was, “I’m 50 – my life is just beginning!” And she was right.  It is never too late to be what you might have been. Start today. Start right now! You can work toward your dream any day you choose.  Remember, a year from now, you’ll wish you started today.

Every time I read these 10 tips, something new hits me.  What a relevant reminder for any stage of your life.  Remember, you are in charge of your life and your future.  You can make it happen; you’ll have to work for it, but it will be worth it.