I started writing 5-day-a-week emails called Powerquotes in the 1990’s, featuring a quotation and questions to ponder. Later, I added Action Steps, calling the service Powerquotes Plus. Then, I moved the format to this blog, doing it once a week and adding my thoughts. All of this is preamble to the fact that I have been collecting and publishing quotations for a long time. Sometimes, in this space, I have something specific in mind. Sometimes, I work from something I've recently read in a book. And sometimes, I go to my collections, dip my toe in, and see what strikes me.
That's what led to this week's selection.
I suppose that short story relates to starting over and fresh starts in itself . . .
"It is no disgrace to start all over. It is usually an opportunity."
- George Matthew Adams, newspaper columnist
Questions to Ponder
- When have I had to start over?
- How often did it end up being an opportunity, even if it didn't feel like that at the start?
- How would my results be different if I always thought about starting over as an opportunity?
Action Steps
- Look at your current situation and decide where a fresh start might be helpful.
- Let go of the past and make a new start, whether it is small or large.
- Go into the change thinking and seeking opportunity.
My Thoughts
Words are powerful things. When people talk or think about starting something, it is often a positive thing. Yet, when we have to start over, it often implies that there was a problem or a mistake, which requires us to start over. When I went to istockphoto to buy the images for this post, I found hundreds under the keyword "start." I found a few handfuls under the keyword "restart," but most of those images were about having to restart a computer. Clearly, not a positive thing or something we look forward to.
But tell someone you are making a fresh start, and you are back to more positive thoughts, aren't you? “Fresh start" implies you have learned something and are looking forward with fresh eyes and an open mind. When you think about starting over in this way, the truth of today's quotation shines through.
Consider all of your "restarts" as "fresh starts" and you will find the opportunities awaiting you.
I found myself going through several of your blogs postings after reading the post of “Fresh Starts”. I like the change in words that shifts my thinking from – to +.
Thanks
Great timing! I just received notice for the second day in a row that a key volunteer would no longer be able to help me with my work at a non-profit. My comments to a co-worker were that it appeared the playing field was being cleared so we can involve new people. However, with more work than I can possibly do by myself, I simply wanted to put my head down and cry. Your blog helped me work through the emotions of this reality and focus on a plan for making it a fresh start. Thanks.
Great article Kevin. This is just like waking up to a delicious cup of coffee! It is just what I needed today, after a particularly challenging day yesterday. I look forward to a fresh start on some particularly difficult issues. Look forward to drink more from your “well”.
Great post really inspirational for people who are starting all over again may be one like me are looking out such thoughts. Thanks. Felt motivated after reading your post.
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