Don’t Wait for Perfect

Hi friends! As 2017 draws to a close and we all start thinking about what we want to accomplish in the new year I want to remind you that you can start something great at any time. You don’t have to wait for the beginning of a new year or even a new week to make positive changes and go after your goals.

I often find myself in conversations with people where we end up talking about stuff we would like to do. It’s not long into these talks when I hear “As soon as I ______ then I will get to __________.”  Or “If only I could _________ then I would___________.” When the “as soons” and “If only’s” start to rear their ugly heads I know my friends are in trouble. As Soon and If Only are sneaky little devils. They enable us to put off the really great things we could do to improve our lives.  Here are some of their greatest hits:

• As soon as the holidays are over I’ll start exercising and eating right.
• If only I didn’t need this job I could follow my dreams of being a painter.
• As soon as I can afford a top of the line computer I’ll open an ESTY shop.
• There’s no point even trying unless I can do it perfectly.

Unless is As Soon and If Only’s awful cousin. When you see them trying to weasel their way into your plans kick them out. You don’t need that negativity. Here is how you handle those sneaky so-and-sos:

Instead of: “As soon as I learn the best way to sell my products online I’ll open and ETSY shop” Try this: “I’ll make and ETSY account, list my crafts and learn as I go!” OR “If only I had a fancy, expensive, nice camera I could make a YouTube video.” Try “I’ll make a video with my smart phone to get started, I can always get a fancy camera later if I like it!” OR “As soon as I save up a years income I’ll quit my job and start a business.” Try “I’ll build my business in the evenings while I am still working my 9-5! Who needs to binge watch Game of Thrones Anyway?”

I am not trying to make anyone feel bad or guilt you into doing anything you don’t want to do. It’s awesome if you are perfectly happy with your life the way it is but if you’re not take action. Don’t try, DO! Life is seldom perfect. We are all on different paths and have been dealt different cards in life but you are the only person who can make the change you want in your life. That’s your job. Don’t let another year go by if there are things you want to improve. You are the only person who can do it and the perfect time is now.

The other troublemaker you need to watch out for is “Someday”

• “Someday when I have the time…”
• Someday when I have the money…”
• “Someday when I don’t have to…”
• “I’ll use this awesome thing I have been hoarding someday”

There are seven days in the week and not one of them is called “Someday.” Today is what we’ve got folks. Make it a good one!

What do YOU want to do in 2018? Let me know in the comments. Let’s cheer each other on. We got this! Happy crafting!