Embracing the Excitement and Challenges of Starting Something New

One day you will wake up and there won’t be any more time to do the things you’ve always wanted. Do it now ~Paulo Coelho

Well, that is a true statement! Have you found yourself in this state at any time in your life? Time has gone by and you were going to do something you hoped to do someday, but all of a sudden, it was too late? In our New Year's post we touched on the topic of changing jobs, learning something new or saving for something special. This is the year to put action to our desires. It's time to do something about our hopes and dreams. If not now, when? We mustn't put off living any longer...

You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream ~Les Brown

So, what is your goal or dream? Have you been toying with a career change? Now is a great time to make that happen! Businesses are struggling to find workers. That makes it a prime time for you to get your resume ready and hit the pavement. Do what you love and you will love what you do. It sounds too easy to be true, but is it? Why can't you do what you love? If it's a matter of cutting back so you can take a smaller income, go for it! What is your priority? Is it a lifestyle or contentment in your career?

Maybe changing career paths will give you more time for the things that really matter. Is it family time? Your job may not afford you the life/work balance you so desperately desire. Work isn't life, it's a part of it. We are at our jobs a third of our day, and usually 5 out of 7 days a week, and if we aren't happy, why are we staying? If there is something that interests you, volunteer in that field, or take a part time job, if possible, to see if you'd really like it long term.

Do some research to see if the career path has a sustainable income for you. Do you want to start your own business? Maybe it's just a dream and you wouldn't enjoy it as much as you think. You won't truly know unless you do a bit of research. Being your own boss has some definite perks, but it also means you're the one who makes all the big decisions. There's no 'passing the buck' when you're the owner.

Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible ~Tony Robbins

In this article we are not addressing long term goals such as retirement or paying off student loans, etc. Those are very important and worthy goals, hopefully you have already implemented those strategies in your financial planning. Also, you should have an emergency fund for when life's interruptions happen. What we are looking at is something attainable in the near future.

Determine what you are saving for. Is it a down payment for a newer vehicle or a trip to explore parts unknown that you've never visited? Maybe it's for a new dinette or bedroom set. Whatever it is, you must start the same; putting money aside to reach your goal. Now that you know what you want, set a timeline as to when you want to attain said goal.

The habit of saving is itself an education; it fosters every virtue, teaches self-denial, cultivates the sense of order, trains to forethought, and so broadens the mind ~T.T. Munger

Depending on how much you need to save, and how realistic your opportunities are to put aside the funds needed to reach your goal, will determine how fast you will get there. Figure out what it's going to cost, then get to work. If you are saving for a new living room set that costs $2400 and you want it within 8 months you will need to save $300 per month. Budget: How much can you save out of every paycheck?

Discipline: Are you willing to sacrifice to reach your goal? Do you eat lunch out or buy lattes daily? Commit to taking lunch or drinking coffee at home and set that money aside towards reaching your goal. On line shopping? Give up buying anything new until you've reached your savings goal! If you think that is too hard to do, give up purchasing anything but food and gas for 30 days.

Spend less, at least for the time being. If this is important to you, you can achieve it. (In our previous article we discussed clearing the clutter. Purchasing only essentials for 30 days is a great way to help you stay clutter-free!) Spend time thinking about what you spend your money on and what you are willing to give up temporarily so you can reach your goal in the allotted timeframe. If you cannot find expendable money in your current situation, can you find other ways to earn money? A part time, temporary job maybe? If you really want this, your determination will make it happen!

A dream doesn't become a reality through magic; it takes sweat, imagination and hard work

~Collin Powell

Maybe you are wanting to learn something new this year. You may want to sign up for a cooking or art class or taking it to the next level with something you may already know. What interests you? Look around in your community and see what classes are offered locally. The HUB in Belfair: https://hubhappenings.org/ offers different classes at entry level. Check them out!

Has teaching been a dream of yours? Do you have a skill that you would like to teach others. The HUB might like you to come onboard and teach something they do not yet offer as they have no teacher! Your local community college would be another good source for entry level classes. Volunteer your time and you are guaranteed to learn something new, be it a new skill or sharing your wisdom and knowledge with those you come into contact with! Network, one thing leads to another in these situations. Share your dreams with your friends and family. People can be a great source of encouragement if they know your dreams!

Whatever it is that you have always wanted to do, now is the time to do it! This is your year to shine! If you don't make the effort to go and grow, you may find it's too late. Why put it off any longer. It's YOUR dream! Something you have longed to do, so go for it! We celebrate with you as you reach for the stars!