Make A U-Turn

If you’ve ever made a decision, then realized you needed to change course – or sensed your life is headed in the wrong direction – this newsletter is for you! We’re talking about making a U-turn: turning your life around to align with your intentions and purpose.

Warmly,

Melanie Ott

Inspirational Thoughts

“They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.” ~ Andy Warhol

“To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often.” ~ Winston Churchill

Finding the Courage to Change Course

Making decisions can be tough. Admitting you’ve made the wrong decision – or a series of wrong decisions – is even more difficult. The courage to make a U-turn is pivotal, helping you live a life of fulfillment in alignment with your values.

We typically refer to a “U-turn” in the context of driving a car – changing direction to get to the other side of the road or because you’re headed the wrong way. Like a U-turn on a roadway, a quick change of direction in life can be a risky move.  Before you make a dramatic reversal, consider your circumstances, assess the situation, and seek advice from a mentor to make your change safely and successfully.

Make Your Decision Boldly

To be successful in life you need the ability to make changes – but making a dramatic turn-around can feel like admitting defeat. Whether it’s ending a relationship, moving back home, or stepping away from a promising career, dramatic life changes are difficult to make. Keep in mind that over time your goals and desires will naturally shift and evolve – so it’s perfectly normal to change course.

When circumstances or your priorities change, overcome fear and move proudly and boldly in the new direction. You may dread explaining your decision to others, but speaking with conviction will convey that you are acting on your values and life purpose. Who knows – it may inspire others to make a change in their own life. Remember: Making a U-turn is a sign of strength, not weakness!

Make Your Decision Confidently

Once you’ve decided to make an about-face, refuse to beat yourself up for changing your mind. Taking corrective action in life is a bold move that requires courage and conviction. The knowledge that you’re on the right path for your life is its own reward. Don’t allow fear to hold you back and live in regret. Make a U-turn to better your life and find joy and fulfillment.

Tips to Make A U-Turn

• Make a decision. Sometimes the pressure of making the “right” decision, and the accompanying fear of making the “wrong” decision, can leave you feeling paralyzed. Most often a purposeful choice is better than no choice at all.
• Test your assumptions. Ensure your U-turn is a true change of heart in line with your intentions and values – not just a yearning for something new and different. Consider your fears, assumptions, and intended goal to determine your proper course. Ask yourself, “How does this decision align with my visions and purpose. Is it the best action I can take at this time?”
• Think long-term. To make important decisions and set yourself on the right path, be clear about what you want in life – not just tomorrow, but next year and in five to ten years. Craft a vision of your ideal future. Once you know where you are headed, it will become easier to make the right decisions.
• Be clear and confident. Big changes can leave those around you critical. Explain without apologizing; you don’t need to justify yourself to anyone.

Focus on the Future

At Leap Forward Coaching, our thoughtful methods will help you assess your circumstances, analyze your intentions and, when necessary, make a U-turn to live your most fulfilled and successful life.