One of the most important things in terms of motivation, is to understand that we are in charge of ourselves. Of our thoughts and decisions. We might not always want to be, and we might not always feel like it’s true, but we ARE the boss of what we choose to do, how we choose to think, what we choose to tell ourselves.

But I don’t wanna be in charge! That makes me responsible for everything! Understanding your power is crucial in leading the life that you want to lead, being the person that you dream of being.

Understand that no-one else can make you think positive or make you believe, and no-one else can change you and your life. Not who you want to be? You have to decide to make it different. And don’t for a minute think I’m saying it’s easy, it is not. But it is possible.

I think something essential is for us to learn to be kind to ourselves. No, not ‘you should just go sit on the couch with that pack of choc-chip bikkies’ kind…come on now! – but gentle and positive and encouraging. One way of approaching it is to think of the side of yourself that could use some work, as a friend of yours. You wouldn’t be mean to them, or shout at them or bully them, you would do anything you could to help and encourage them.

Think about how you talk to yourself. Is it productive? Or does it just drag you down? Let’s face it, you probably won’t succeed if you’re not on your own side. And life is full of ups and downs, so we’re always going to need to cheer ourselves along. So get on Team You, take charge of that brain or yours and get it to help you along, with kindness and encouragement.