?I'm not afraid of storms for I'm learning how to sail my ship.?

-Louisa May Alcott, Author & Women's Activist (1832-1888)

There is an adage that says each journey begins with the first step, and if we are fortunate, those steps and that journey continue throughout our lives.

The first step can be a simple act; something as seemingly inconsequential as spring cleaning, rearranging furniture, beginning a garden or even taking a class. Then again, the first step may be as significant and life-altering as leaving a relationship or changing careers. The most important aspect is to take that first step in the direction you wish to go?the direction which emanates from your heart.

On my path to self-fulfillment I came to the understanding that it was neither money nor success which satisfied my soul. There was, despite many friends and a comfortable lifestyle, so much missing, and that was sharing with others. Self empowerment, while an individual and personal commitment, is strengthened and nourished by contact, sharing, networking, and acknowledgment?discovering common goal and beliefs. Sharing that power both helps the individual as well as those with whom they come into contact, creating a circle, or web of success which enriches all.

?Look at each day as a chance to invest life into life: A chance to share your experience and deposit it into someone else's conscience. Each day is a chance to work miracles in the lives of others.?

-Jim Rohn

I would like to share with you some of the realizations I have come to as well as some practices which will help on the journey to creating the life you desire. As part of my path to growth, I have incorporated the following:

Adversity is an illusion. The truth is that it is no more than opportunity disguised; a looking glass through which we must pass.

Avoid negativity in life and those who refuse to respect and support your journey.

Intuition: Trust your intuition. Let it guide you, take your hand and lead you to both success and the spiritual enlightenment you seek. To be intuitive is to recognize trust and embrace your sixth sense.

Seek and embrace teachers, mentors and life coaches; those whose knowledge can take you to yet another level.

The idea, the concept of empowerment embodies sharing. This means you yourself moving forwards in the company of others, just as it implies that you must take the hands of others while upon your own journey. To be and feel empowered is to live believing in yourself and the powers within you and, just as importantly, others. To truly believe in the self and the power we posses is paradoxically to encourage one's reach to exceed their grasp.

We as human beings are propelled into the future. Why not change that paradigm into being compelled into that future? Not simply day by day, but moment by moment. What we do with this opportunity is up to us. I encourage you to take the first step to self empowerment to the life which you desire. Along the way share with others and encourage others. Experience the joy this act brings to you as well as the rewards you reap in your own personal journey toward self-empowerment and fulfillment.