It is easy to forget the importance of starting and achieving goals – whether they be big or small. With a new year, comes new opportunity. This can mean a chance to shed a few procured holiday pounds, start a new work ethic, or even embark on a fresh mindset! This world is full of opportunity and it is up to YOU to make the most of what you may or may not be given.

One thing the Naval Academy has taught me is that there are so many doors right in front of you and by not opening them, you are depriving yourself of opportunities otherwise being taken advantage of. Some people might prefer to play it safe, but taking risks is what life is meant for. Conversely, if you are stuck feeling sorry for yourself, you will achieve nothing in life. Even complacency is just as detrimental as self-pity; stop getting comfortable with being comfortable. Getting out of your head is the hardest part and once you take that first step forward, you won’t be looking back.

For example, if you want that job promotion or pay raise, you cannot sit around and wait for it to be given to you. Chances are, that it is not going to happen that way and your hard work might get over-looked because the new guy is more exciting. If you need to get out of a bad/backwards relationship; give the guy/girl your best wishes, block them, leave, do whatever you need to and keep in mind what is best for YOU.

Cyclical patterns of habit are often a cause of some greater problem; maybe it is low self-esteem, bad relationships, fear of failure, or lack of enthusiasm. If you are not passionate about what you are doing – you are going about life in the most backwards fashion. I can literally see you walking in reverse down the sidewalk of life right now – stop, reassess, and turn around. Face life head on, I mean no regrets right? To do this, I highly recommend taking a look at the following tips to start the arduous, yet satisfactory process of experiencing your life to the fullest.

My 5 Steps for Success include (but are not limited to) the following:

• Stop feeling sorry for yourself. (Seriously, no one likes to be around someone so negative.)
• Start with something you want, something you are passionate about, or something you know will benefit yourself/others.
• Make your goal achievable. (If you are currently working a part time job, chances are you won’t be making 6-figures by tomorrow so start small and work your way up.)
• Have a plan. (You cannot just "wing it".)
• Never lose sight of the ultimate goal. (If in any way you get bored or frustrated with how your progress is going – remember to focus on what your ultimate goal is.)

With these few tips, I hope to help spark a new fire inside of you that stimulates productivity, prosperity, and happiness. Just imagine the possibilities you could have when your propriety triumphs pity. Help yourself; mitigate the process and find the boldest, brightest, and happiest you.

"The views expressed, [in this article] reflect personal opinions of the authors and do not reflect the official policy or position of the United States Naval Academy, the United States navy, any federal agency, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.”