Ken Van Liew

Time after time, millions, even billions, of people make New Year's resolutions -- ranging from losing weight, starting a new business, to an old time favorite, quitting smoking or even saving a marriage.

So, "How are you making out with your New Years Resolutions So Far?".

In every case, the basic motivation for these changes is the same. They want to do things differently, better, improving themselves, their circumstances or both. Unfortunately, for many or more likely most, these decrees of self-improvement rarely last any longer than the holidays they follow. For some, they struggle with finding the inspiration or faith to believe that the change is even possible. Others, struggle to unearth the energy necessary to take action.

For those that are lucky enough to have both the energy and the faith in the beginning, it is quickly put to the test the moment the first real obstacle presents itself.

Here is where the excuses and procrastination begins. Their motivation fades and soon they fall back into the 'grooves' that their past habits and decisions have worn into their lives.

I am hoping that I can grab the attention of those individuals whom are now facing some of those motivation-robbing obstacles. I also hope that some of the tools included in this article will help you to overcome the barriers that will keep you from making it over the top of the hill.

First, let me start off by assuring you that YOU CAN MAKE IT HAPPEN! Problems small and large, heartaches deep and painful may be looming on your horizon or right in your face this very moment.

However, no matter how helpless or hopeless you feel in the face of these circumstances YOU CAN MAKE IT HAPPEN! Trust me on this one. Why? Because I know how you feel. I have traveled (and at times still travel) that rough and rocky roads of adversity.

I have survived the levels of stress that can turn coal to diamonds, while at the same time standing back up after falling down as a result of personal and professional disasters.

So, without a doubt I can say with heartfelt honesty that "I know what it feels like to be long on trouble and short on resources."

Through these times I learned many valuable lessons, however, the one thing I learned that stands out is - YOU CAN MAKE IT HAPPEN.

Problems, failures, and disappointments have battered and bruised your pride and personality but no matter how messed up, looked over or knocked down you feel -- take heart in knowing YOU CAN MAKE IT HAPPEN -- you can start anew.

Below are seven steps to help you with your new beginning. There are many different way in which you can become your own personal phoenix, rising from the ashes of past failures and defeats creating a new life out of the old.

Applying these practices now will not only create this new beginning but also serve as a blueprint for a set of destiny changing habits that can help you develop and realize the life you dream, desire and deserve.

Charles Reade once said, "Sow an act and you reap a habit. Sow a Habit and you reap a character. Sow a character and you reap a destiny."