Are you stuck in a rut, want the courage to try new things, and don’t know how?

Contrary to what it may feel like when you are in a rut, the power lies within to make a change. Even if, you've been doing the same thing for your entire life and now want to go in a different direction, it's your choice. You have the power to do what you want to do, if you are willing to take responsibility for your power or lack thereof. It's important to try new things to have a quality of life; even if it's just a new haircut.

Don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with routine, but there is a difference between contented routine and feeling stuck in a rut. It's all about your perception, and since the only reality is your perception, that's what matters most. Sure, it's okay to consider how your choices affect others, but that doesn’t mean you should not make a change. Just give any change some serious thought by weighing the options and determining how it impacts you and them before you choose. Once you choose stick to it. Too often people let others dissuade them from making change they know is right for them.

One thing that can help you know it's okay to try new things is to realize that the happier you are in your life, the happier others will be around you. If you're feeling stuck, and out of sorts, and even miserable, the misery will rub off on others. It’s best to figure out how to add newness to your life, restore your passion, and live your true purpose and aim.

Fear of change can be traced to fear of death, harm, or some sort of pain that is "death like." If you can rationalize that you're not likely to die from one of the changes you want to make, and you're not likely to be harmed or experience pain that you cannot handle, you may be able to get to a place of empowerment. No one said it would be easy, but change begins by learning how think about something newly.

Remember, that most change will bring joy into your life -- eventually. How many times have you tried something new that wasn't that great, but it led to something else wonderful and awesome in your life? How many people have taken a leap of faith toward something new and now cannot imagine their life back the old way? Most successful people, if you ask them right now if they'd change anything they've ever done in their life, they'll say no. Even if the things they've gone through are horrific. They know there is a lesson in everything to help you learn and grow.

So, take the leap, start small, and before you know it, change will be your friend.

Author's Bio: 

Award winning author, Debra J. Slover's leadership expertise stems from 18 years directing a state youth services program, experience organizing 20 state and national conferences, and running her own consulting firm for over six years. Her website is http://www.leadershipgardenlegacy.com