Paula left a comment that got me thinking.  She said, “Often times, just taking the first step towards a goal will start a chain reaction that yields amazing results. I wish you much much braveness of heart as you move towards your goals in this new year!”

What is it about stepping out toward a goal that causes us to quake with fear?  Have you ever felt strongly about something you had to do, but just couldn’t bring yourself to take that step?  (I’ve needed to get a part-time job to supplement our income, and finally took the plunge in December!)  It does take a lot of bravery to make a change.  It takes determination.  And sometimes it takes someone pushing you (kicking and screaming) to get it done.  (Yep, I needed that push out the door!)  But then you have to forge ahead and do what needs to be done.

Do you have to grit your teeth and bear it?  No.  I think we have to choose joy in the midst of our choices.  Helen Keller said, “Resolve to keep happy, and your joy and you shall form an invincible host against difficulties.”

You know what?  The job is good!  It’s helping hone up my discipline for the things done at home.  And I’m learning new things from the work I’m doing.  So, why did I fret so long about that change anyway?!

As I’ve been watching my Hubby tackle his exercise regiment, I’ve learned a new respect for determination.  He doesn’t wimp out when he’s huffing and puffing.  And, over time, he has regained muscle and lost 25 pounds!

So, here’s my motto for the New Year:  Determination turns into action, and action turns into results.

Yesterday I signed up for Facebook, one of my long-time goals.

Today I’m signing up for The Christian Communicator; and setting up an account for my ebook!

What goal will you face today?  Will you agree with Janelle?  She said, “My prayer is that not only will I see or hear where God wants me, but that I have the courage to do what he is asking.”

 

Sally

Sometimes, that one single step is the hardest to make. I used to experience this too. I figured out that if I can't bring myself to do that particular thing, I'd try to do another thing just to keep myself moving. There are countless roads, but there's only one destination. ;-)

"Keep myself moving." Great thought! Have you noticed that it gets easier after that first step? The momentum takes over and it feels like such a huge relief to get out of that "stuck zone!" Maybe that's why the Lord tells us in Proverbs 3 to commit our steps to Him. He's the only One who can direct us to the right path and He knows it begins with one step.

have to agree with Paula and the rest of your post. All that is needed is just one step and another and another and before you know it...you've gone far and it's not so bad after all.

Thanks Marites, it helps when we all stand together for each step. Somehow it bolsters the courage, when you know that others are right there with you!