Looking back, I would not be the same person I am today if it wasn't for the day I shifted my perspective.

Waiting for change to find me was not getting me anywhere. I hoped for everything I ever wanted to just be handed to me. That it would just happen. Every day I had an expectation. Expectations for myself. Expectations for others. Expectations for success.

But that isn't how this life is.

Life is enjoying the cool breeze on a hot summer day. Life is laughing until you have a tummy ache. Life is crying until you run out of breath. Life is smelling the flowers as you walk by rather than just glancing over them. Life is living in the moment and forgetting the idea of making plans.

Life is enjoying the little things. And knowing that good will come out of the pain.

In fact, be thankful for pain. It helps you notice so much more about the good and happiness life provides.

There is always a light at the end of the tunnel. So whatever you may be struggling with, whatever you are going through, whatever is heavy on your heart, know that it does get better. Take it from someone who has had several dark days.

Things will fall back into place, and it will be a greater plan than what you had for yourself.

Once you switch your perspective, you will have strength like never before. You will no longer find situations where the tears have to pour. You will find that life has so much to offer. You will gain confidence in yourself. You won't care what others think about you being yourself. Most of all, the feeling of pulling yourself through the struggles is so rewarding. You have gained your sense of power once again by overcoming the battle.

So forget expectations. Forget the past.

Live full-heartedly in the now. And live full-heartedly for your own happiness.

I promise you won't regret it.