"Courage is simply the willingness to be afraid and act anyway." ~Dr. Robert Anthony

  

      Change is often the scariest thing we face in our lives. But change brings with it many blessings, even though it may not seem that way at first. As we approach the new year, many of us are already thinking of changes we'd like to make  in our lives. Perhaps losing  a few pounds or saving money this year are some things that may be on a list. But even before we put pen to paper and write down our resolutions, we have already failed. Why? Fear. As determined as we think we are, the fear of change can halt even the best intentions in their tracks. For many folks it's not the fear of the actual doing that's the issue. It's the fear of failing, so they give up long before they even really began. 

      This year, don't let fear of anything get in your way. Take each goal one moment at a time and remember to reward yourself along the way. Courage is a great teacher. Find it. Allow yourself to do something you've never done, try something you've never tried before and open yourself up to new ideas, concepts and beliefs. Strive to become a stronger, braver and more well-rounded person. You won't regret it.