Spring is on its way, and you may be feeling the increase in energy as nature begins to stir and awaken. It’s a good time to implement changes in your life. Perhaps you’ve encountered some interesting ideas and are inspired about a new goal or intention. You might need more information, some motivation, or maybe you just wonder how to begin.

Taking on a new project can seem overwhelming, whether it’s external, like planting an herb garden or learning to sew, or internal, such as practicing gratitude or being more compassionate. Gathering information and deciding on your approach is part of the process. Be sure you have the resources and support you need, whether it is seedlings and a sunny patch of earth or a supportive friend to help encourage your new attitude.

When you’re starting out, create a list or outline of how to get where you’re headed, like a map to your goal. Look for opportunities to take action. Question yourself, so you can go deeper and uncover a variety of methods that work for you. For motivation, find inspiring websites, informative books, and people who are already well-versed in the subject.

If you get overwhelmed, start small. At least make a start, even if you don’t know exactly how you’ll get there. A ship in dry dock isn’t going anywhere. You need to leave port and head out on the open seas. You can correct your course as you go, but the main thing is to get moving. Find one thing you can do today that will get you closer to your goal. It might be as simple as a phone call to find out when the fabric store is open, or looking up quotes about compassion online.

Once you’ve made that first step, encourage yourself to follow through and keep learning and growing. You may even change your original goal as you discover another one that fits you better – do what feels right to you. Life is about the journey, not just the destination. Bon voyage!