First Time Away from Home: Finding Your Courage to Fly

Congratulations! You are ready to use those wings. Feelings of excitement, anxiety, fear, displacement, and jubilation unite within. I am writing to express the pride and happiness this journey shall bring. Too often, we focus on the negatives and misunderstand the personal growth we need to endure. Not any longer, my dear friend; we are going to study the "correct" way to embrace these changes.

Fear of the Unknown

Stop fearing what you have no control over! The unknown is a scary place because you believe that. The future is filled with joys and exciting surprises, if you allow yourself to see them and have faith. Yes, friend, there may be down turns or disappointments that arise, but they are mere speed bumps in your path to success. The problem solving techniques, street smarts, and educational background you already possess will guide your steps positively. Why are you doubting your natural abilities? Hope, faith, and trust are powerful allies; use them to feel the strength you are already exuding.

Change is a Stranger you Can Make Friends With

Change is disturbing and unpleasant to all of us; to some degree. The positives of change greatly outweigh the few negatives. The truth of it all--change is simply growth. Without its presence, we are unable to grow. Embrace the new life you are marching towards. Hold your hand out cordially and meet your new guiding tool. Are you feeling overwhelmed or skeptical? All that is needed to overcome these emotional waves; a map. Map out the road to success. Start with short-term goals and targets. Keep your map handy during the trip. You will begin to see all your accomplishments and gain your confidence back.

Utilize Your Resources

Keep yourself actively working on finding new routines. Saving time, energy, and finances are easily attainable. Resources are available everywhere you look, you just need to look. Your wings are strong and will enable you to soar, but you need to exercise them. Trial and error is a learning process we take for granted. It is OK to make mistakes; we all do. It is how you react and carry on after the mistakes, that defines who you are.

Spread Your Wings

We all believe in you and your abilities to lead a successful life. Always remember that you have support and love waiting for visitation rights back home. By the way, those aren't nerves making your stomach turn; it is the wings learning how to flutter--filling you with excitement.