Hello, and happy Monday.
First a quote: “ Although no one can go back and make a new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand-new ending.” – Carl Bard
In many ways, each of us is the author of our own story—a book, or roadmap, of sorts. We create the characters, shape the setting, and develop the plot, complete with twists and turns.
We are in the driver’s seat on our own unique journey into the future.
If we don’t like the direction our story is taking, we have the power to turn the page and begin a new chapter of our own choosing.
“Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.” – Seneca
Carl Bard is right: It doesn’t matter whether we’re thinking about this very moment, our day, week, month, year, career, or even a project we’re working on—if we’re unhappy with the direction of our story, we can almost always head in a new direction by creating a brand-new chapter or roadmap for the future.
It’s important to remember: We are the primary authors of our own unique stories.
Now might be a great time for reflection, a pause to assess our lives and the direction our lives are taking. I like to say:
“If you continue heading in the direction you are going, you are likely to end up where you are headed.” - Bryan Yager
Based upon your current storyline, are you happy with the direction your life is headed; and therefore, where you will likely end up by continuing in the same direction if not changed?
Perhaps now, at the start of a new year, is the right time to re-evaluate your current chapter—or even the direction of your future chapters and storyline.
Having celebrated my 69th birthday recently, I’ve been going through this same assessment process myself. I feel incredibly fortunate to have worked in a field I’ve loved for 40+ years. I’m also keenly aware that I’m writing the final few chapters of my professional career.
I look forward to what’s ahead with anticipation and excitement. I also have a deep sense of gratitude for all those who have helped to shape my journey along the way.
If you’re reading this missive today, you are an important character in my story. I feel fortunate our paths have crossed—whether in a big way over many years, or a smaller way, for a short period of time; perhaps you have only known me through these weekly missives.
Either way, I am extremely grateful. Thank you for the opportunity to be a small part of your life and story.
What are your thoughts on this topic?
Have you ever rewritten a chapter of your life? What have been your “lessons learned?” Anything you would be comfortable sharing with your fellow readers?
As always, how will you live, love, or lead differently—or better—this coming year?
Wishing you all the very best in 2025!
Bonus Quotes Below
Related MMM Articles:
Sincerely,
Bryan Yager
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- Revised and updated, originally published on December 16, 2019
Bonus Quotes:
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“No one can ever take your memories from you – each day is a new beginning, make good memories every day.” – Catherine Pulsife
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“Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
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“It’s never too late to become who you want to be. I hope you live a life that you’re proud of, and if you find that you’re not, I hope you have the strength to start over.” — F. Scott Fitzgerald
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“No river can return to its source, yet all rivers must have a beginning.” – Native American Proverb
