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I recently found myself no longer walking forward in my life. I was bitter, depressed, frustrated, and completely miserable. The reason: I was trying to be someone who I am not.

Have you ever done that? Have you ever tried to fit in because it’s glaringly obvious that you simply don’t? Have you tried to be a part of something you’re not actually passionate about? Have you ever tried to pursue your parents’ dreams for you even though they’re not even close to what you want to do with your life?  Have you ever used words that you wouldn’t normally say because everyone around you was speaking them?

I had been trying to become someone I wasn’t meant to be. And that person wasn’t bad, but the problem was that she just wasn’t me. Once I realized that, I opened my eyes to what I love–my passions, my hobbies, my dreams–and I’ve found my life again. Even though who I am deep down may not be who you are, it’s okay. In fact, it’s good. I was created to be me, and you were created to be you. And together, we all can use our personal strengths to improve one another’s lives as we all continue in our Forward Walking.

 Do you find joy or optimism in the monotonous grind of each day? Do you find little things every day that make you smile? Are you becoming someone you’re excited and proud to be? Do you love who you are?

Travel back in time (mentally, of course) and remember something you loved as a child, whether it was an activity, a book, or a toy. Remember how it made you feel? Can you remember why you loved it so? Now think about today. Was there something recently that brought similar feelings to you?

I challenge you to think about who you are and who you are striving to be. If you find yourself feeling unmotivated, sad, or just miserable, I suggest taking some time to consider who you are meant to be. Reflect on who you’ve been in the past, think about who you admire and why, and decide how to become the best version of you. Open up your eyes and mind to the possibilities of your life. Embrace your imperfections because they make you unique. Strengthen your courage. Dare to try something you’ve only dreamed of. Resolve to be your best version of you.

Walk forward knowing that you are one of a kind and that makes this world a better place.

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