EMERGE FROM YOUR COCOON - BE A BUTTERFLY

What kind of picture did you just visualize from the title of this article? Did you see the final product flying and alight upon a flower? Did you see the intricate pattern on the wings? Did you smile as you thought about the times when you've watched this delicate and lovely creation testing many different opportunities for nectar and then moving on to discover even more delectable treats just around the corner? Through this analogy of the growth of a cute, fuzzy bug into one of nature's most delightful creations I hope to awaken you from a slumber period you might be experiencing in some part of your life.

Yes, at times we need to be securely wrapped up in order to then slowly crawl out and spread our wings. Unfortunately, many of us stay tightly secured in our safety zone (cocoon) as it is a known factor, uncomfortable as it may be. I know there are areas in my life where this applies. I realize that breaking free would be beneficial but for various reasons I don't muster the necessary muscle to burst through to show off my colors.

Each year, people have dreams, make resolutions, and set goals. Perhaps you've said something to the effect of: What I don't know I will no longer allow to intimidate me. I will instead view it as an opportunity. Maybe you even added thoughts such as: I won't be shackled by my yesterday's, the could have been's, I should have done's, or why didn't I do that. The past is unimportant except that the events and outcomes are lessons to be learned. Today is what counts the most with a can-do outlook for tomorrow. If so - I'm impressed. And congratulations - you're on your way to achieving more success in your life.

But even without such uplifting attitudes and motivational thoughts - you too will make progress, as long as you keep struggling against the mostly self-imposed restraints you see as roadblocks. Remember that each person develops at his or her own pace. You cannot hurry growth; you can only make room for it and thereby encourage it to take place. By letting go of hurts, other peoples expectations of you, and feelings of inadequacy can you take a major leap into the bigger world known as freedom.

We may actually place a lid on our potential in order to conform to a mental blueprint; the so-called self-image. The biggest "con" in confidence is the label you put on yourself (or allow others to bestow upon you) as you limit what you will attempt. To live up to your success potential, allow yourself to try something new on a regular basis. This can be work or play related - it makes no difference. The important thing is the willingness to rewrite your script. Try some personal propaganda by reversing the negative, self-defeating statements you might make about yourself. Exploit the principle used in advertising campaigns. Repetition of a message drives it home unconsciously so that it becomes a subjective truth of your belief system. Imagine how barren our world would be if the encapsulated caterpillar didn't push against its barrier to emerge into something bigger and better than its original self.

Be a wanter. Wanters vigorously go after every possibility they feel is, or should be, open to them. Because of their desire and persistence, they tend to achieve about 80 to 90 percent of what they want. When you only want half of that, you may end up with even less. If the butterfly only put out half the effort to break through the cocoon casing, it would never come to life. You have to want more to get more. Set up realistic yet high enough standards for yourself and work on measuring up to them. It's certainly acceptable to use the accomplishments of others to give you creative ideas and perhaps the motivating energy force you need. Be daring in mind and spirit first. Take chances and act without overdoing the research which can lead to procrastination and doubts and non-action. I once read that if you think you can do it, it's almost a crime not to try.

Remember - you want to be seen as the butterfly, not the bug. You won't be readily noticed (at least not in a positive manner) if you are crawling on the ground or hiding for protection. You need to break open your cocoon and let your outer self be displayed so that others know you are alive and waiting for them to discover your real attributes. Each time we reach out to do more than what is expected, we add just a little more positive goodness to the world. By sharing yourself as a delicate yet determined butterfly, you share your victory of emergence and offer encouragement to others to do the same. Let your rainbow colors shine and glimmer!

Copyright 2002 by Virginia Reeves. This article may be reprinted; inform the author via mailto:rainbowop@onemain.com. For more on creativity, success, communication, and enhancing your skills and talents for more growth,
please click on http://www.rainbowopportunities.ws or mailto:millionairemindset@GetResponse.com (for free bi-monthly e-zine)

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