A lightbulb moment is so powerful because — in a flash — something becomes crystal clear. And it changes you.

Many years ago, I was a junior-level stockbroker at a large New York firm. The firm required me to go through an intense training program with my colleagues. On “graduation” night, a motivational speaker came to inspire us to be top sellers. To be at the top of our game.

This guy was good. I felt he was speaking directly to me when he said:

“YOU have the power to be successful. It is up to YOU to figure out who you want to be. You have the power to be that person.

No one is going to do it for you. And you have to do it every single day — not just when you feel like it.”

Whoa! I instantly realized I would never settle for the status quo. I understood that I could — and should — always be improving, growing, evolving. To strive to be the best version of myself.

What about you? Are you letting life take you along for the ride? Comfortably settled in the status quo? Is it time to shake things up?

Only one person can turn your hopes, dreams, goals or aspirations into reality: you. And not just any version of you. The best version of you.

Not sure who that person is? It’s time to discover her. And I’ll let you in on a little secret:

Becoming the best version of yourself
is NOT one big
achievement or arrival point.

It’s a process, a way of thinking, a way of acting. The best you in any given moment is the one who is seeking to be better in some way.

Power Challenge 1: Challenge Your Status Quo

The best version of yourself won’t find you. You have to discover her. Sometimes she hides behind the familiar version of yourself. After all, she’s probably comfortable there.

We all crave comfort. Even if comfort is not ideal. Even if it’s not serving you. So, you’ll have to get out of your comfort zone to unsettle yourself a bit.

Challenge your status quo by thinking about what could be different. Take the time to ask yourself some tough questions:

• What motivates you?
• What stops you from chasing your dreams?
• What makes you doubt your abilities or competence?
• What are your priorities?
• What would you do differently if no one were judging?

The minute you contemplate making a change, you are becoming the best version of you. Even when change makes you feel uncomfortable, like the irritating grain of sand that eventually becomes a pearl.

Power Challenge 2: Develop Appreciation for Yourself

Sadly, so many women struggle with self-approval, let alone self-appreciation. Too fat … too skinny … too this … too that …not pretty enough … not smart enough … not accomplished enough.

Have you ever paused and listened to how you talk to yourself? Would you speak that way to a good friend or your child? I’m guessing not!

We criticize ourselves, trying to motivate ourselves to change. But that’s really not the best way.

Try setting aside those “not enoughs” for a moment. Instead, name three things you appreciate about yourself. Try this exercise:

1. Carve out some “me” time. Find a nice quiet, comfortable place to sit.
2. Pour yourself a cup of tea. Light a candle. Play some relaxing music.
3. Get out your prettiest notecard (or favorite journal).
4. Write yourself a thank-you note, expressing gratitude for three or more things you appreciate about yourself.

Don’t worry that your self-appreciation is bragging or boasting. Chances are, you’re a long way from that!

Do take the time to recognize all the wonderful things that make you unique, special and deserving. Please, celebrate your accomplishments, big, small and in-between. Shift your focus, so you see yourself in a new, positive light.

You might feel strange at first. That’s okay. Self-criticism is probably more familiar than self-compassion, self-approval or self-appreciation. But remember, we’re challenging your status quo! It’s okay — and normal — to feel a bit different along the way.

Power Challenge 3: Commit to Becoming the Best Version of Yourself

Personal and professional growth is a process. The process takes time, patience and lots of hard work. But the journey to become the best version of yourself should be an adventure, not a drag.

So, fasten your seat belt and enjoy the ride! Bring positive energy to the process. Find new sources of inspiration. Be open to new experiences, new discoveries and new insights.

While that motivational speaker lit a fire in me all those years ago, it has been up to me to keep it going. To stoke that fire every single day. Not just when I have felt like it.

It’s not easy. But it’s worth it. Because the best version of you doesn’t gives up when things get a little hard. Keep going — even when you’re pressed for time, stretched to your limits or frustrated. The commitment you make to yourself is one of the most important promises you’ll ever make.

The Journey Begins Here

I credit that incredible lightbulb moment for motivating me to launch my first successful business. To view obstacles as opportunities. To become the best version of myself.

Are you ready to embark on your voyage of self-discovery and growth? Every journey begins with a first step, such as reading this post. Stay with me throughout the year as we explore a topic each month to help you become the best version of yourself!

Looking for a motivational speaker for your next event? Carla energizes and inspires attendees to be the best version of themselves that they can be. Contact her today.