How will you step into the future now?

What a moment this is. 

Seeing spring in bloom feels sweeter than ever after the year we have lived through. 

It is remarkable that so many of us have been vaccinated! 

We are looking forward with anticipation to being more connected in the world—and to a new season of personal growth and change.

And at the same time there are still many concerns swirling, about reaching herd immunity, new virus variants, and knowing how many people are in peril around the world. 

This is not over.

How will we be affected?

It is clear that what lies ahead will not be the same for any of us as in the “before times,” and so we face uncertainty.

We are all changed

Whatever your experiences have been in the last 13 months—it may have been intense and difficult, or things may have gone well for you in the midst of the pandemic—the extraordinary global event has had an impact. And it will continue to impact all of us.

The affect of having lived through this time is worth reflecting on. 

Maybe you think differently today about the relationships in your life, or the work you do, or what really matters to you, or what you value that you used to take for granted. 

I realize it can feel daunting, but carving out time for thoughtful reflection to gain clarity will help you to move forward with intention. 

Why not do some writing to explore all that you have experienced, or spend time with someone close to you and talk about the the observations you’ve both made? 

Think about big themes, and also small things. All of it is important, and all of it will create a sort of tapestry of insight, about what really counts for you now.

Where are you headed?

Having gained insight and perspective, you can think about what you want to create in your life now. Spring is the perfect time for new initiatives.

And yet, this is not the time to rush. Go forward gently. Take your time, because things around us are still evolving.

The key is to set a direction that is right for you. 

And from there get into motion.

? If you have a new focus on the importance of self-care for your well-being—perhaps exercise, a healthier diet, spending time in nature—how will you make that a non-negotiable part of your routine? 

– Get specific about what, when and how you will pursue it.

? If you have had a wake-up call to focus on work that really excites you, how can you start down that path and build momentum? 

– What first step can you take today? What can you research or learn? Who can you reach out to for information, or advice, or to invite collaboration?

? If now is the time to make progress on something that you have been timid about starting, or procrastinated about dealing with, what small step can you take today to get started? And what next step will you take tomorrow? 

– Who can help you (a coach? an accountability partner?) so you stay on track? 

? If you are ready to expand, to reach higher or go bigger—in the work you do, a passion you want to pursue, an initiative you yearn to launch, a relationship you want to go after, a geographic relocation—consider who you need to be to get that started. Bold? Creative? Confident? How can you build those qualities? 

– Be sure to think big! Ask yourself how big the idea can be, and envision that outcome. Get the support you need and begin to take action.

Stay open-minded and flexible

As you begin to move into what is next for you, move ahead thoughtfully. Be prepared to make modifications as conditions around you evolve, and as your insights and experiences inform your thinking.

After all, that is the essence of creativity. 

You are a creator when you stay open and curious. 

You are a creator when you allow yourself to keep generating new ideas and you test them without fear. 

You are a creator when you listen to, and trust, your intuition. 

When you are a creator the possibilities are unlimited.

Stay safe and well, and keep creating.

(And if the thought of the coming change makes you feel uncomfortable, check out my recent article. It has four suggestions that can help you now.)

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About Rochelle Seltzer

Rochelle Seltzer is a Creative Core Coach and the author of Live Big: A Manifesto for a Creative Life. Rochelle guides her clients to Live Big by igniting and accelerating the vast power of creativity.

She coaches accomplished women (and some men) who are frustrated by challenges that limit them and are ready to create the big, bold lives they dare to desire. And in her Live Big Leadership work with organizations, Rochelle coaches leaders to be powerful creators. She also leads customized programs that deliver powerful creative and learning experiences for teams. She always welcomes a conversation, so get in touch.

Visit rochelleseltzer.com to learn more, and sign up to receive her Big Ideas.

Check out the Creators Of Change Resources on Rochelle’s site to access a growing list of resources for learning and action related to ending systemic racism. You will also find the link there to join her bi-weekly Creators of Change Zoom calls.

And, take Rochelle up on her free offer—a guide to help busy women (and men!) begin to reduce overwhelm. Creating Space for YOU: Easy, Small Changes that Can Make a Big Impact.