Take the Time to Dare

Change is often about something new, something unknown and something we either can’t predict or couldn’t see coming. Many of the people I meet have some change they wish they could make or a dream that’s been forgotten, but they are not sure how to get started. Some are in new phases of their lives—retiring, changing careers or thinking about moving. And for others, it’s the hope of a new relationship, a new business or a healthier way of living.

None of these are necessarily easy but what they all have in common is that they require a decision and a first step—the moment to dare.

I want to share with you one of my absolute favorite poems. I have this poem folded up in my wallet, available to read any day. I regularly forward it to friends who have been fired unexpectedly, want to quit smoking or need an inspirational boost.

It’s from an anonymous source, and I am very grateful to the author. Read it, forward it to friends and family—enjoy!

If there were ever a time to dare,
to make a difference,
to embark on something worth doing,
it is now.
Not for any grand cause, necessarily—
but for something that tugs at your heart,
something that’s your aspiration,
something that’s your dream.

You owe it to yourself to make your days here count.
Have fun.
Dig deep.
Stretch.

Dream big.

Know, though, that things worth doing seldom come easy.
There will be good days.
And there will be bad days.
There will be times when you want to turn around,
pack it up, and call it quits.
Those times tell you that you are pushing yourself,
that you are not afraid to learn by trying.

Persist.

Because with an idea,
determination, and the right tools,
you can do great things.
Let your instincts,
your intellect,
and your heart guide you.

Trust.

Believe in the incredible power of the human mind.
|Of doing something that makes a difference.
Of working hard.
Of laughing and hoping.
Of lazy afternoons.
Of lasting friends.
Of all the things that will cross your path this year.

The start of something new brings the hope of something great.
Anything is possible.
There is only one you.
And you will pass this way only once.

Do it right.

—Author Unknown