I know you have heard the expression "You control the Shift!" This a powerful aspect of living a life of abundance and joy. Imagine going for a drive in your car - make it shiny and sporty with a wonderful gear shift - designed especially for your hand. You own the ride and the journey you are taking. In doing so, begin to make great things happen.

Learn to Take Chances. We often live our lives too cautiously, worried about what might go wrong. When we flip the script, we could easily rephrase the thought and declare “This is going to work exceptionally well.” Sometimes we hold on to things that no longer matter to anyone but us. We can’t shift with baggage. The reality is we want everything to fit nicely into our own space. We also know that we really need to let go so that something better can be received – a new opportunity, a new relationship---new to you. So be encouraged to take more chances. Learn to enjoy more of life by embracing new opportunities. The shift is on!

Be noticeably positive. Learn to recognize the negative thoughts you have before they come full circle in your head – put the brakes on! Negative thoughts would be the ones about fear of taking chances, self-doubts, the criticisms of others, second guessing yourself, the complaints, the reasons you can't do something – the intentional or imaginative obstacles (you know what they look and sound like) – brake now – don’t wait! Replace the negative thoughts and patterns with positive thoughts and reflections – 24/7. Name 10 reasons why you should be happy, grateful, loving, charming, attractive, bodacious, better than you have ever been before, exceptional, incredible, smart as heck and so much more! You can do this! Tell yourself – you are worthy of all the great things in store for you. Smile and keep shifting.

Learn something new. We should always be in the process of learning something new. This means we should be constantly improving ourselves, because it is gratifying and satisfying to the soul and it stimulates our mind, enlarges our territories and spheres of influence, increases our confidence and it gives us new perspectives. Start using and your mental muscle more. There are many ways in which to do this – reading, watching or listening to multiple selections of literature genres (online and from the library), music, educational television/videos, take free courses in the community or at local colleges, attend free workshops and seminars, network with people from different professions, volunteer your services, and the list continues. Become the expert that you have always wanted to be in something.

As you continue your drive throughout the rest of your life - remember you own the journey - decide when to slow down and speed up. Just keep it moving! Shifting and loving it! –  Coach Sandra Sessoms-Penny