Accepting Yourself In Order To Move Forward On Your Dreams

Last updated on July 12th, 2022 at 01:57 pm

Although I am an overly positive and optimistic person, I’ll never shy away from acknowledging that I, too, am human — and one who often feels puzzled as to why certain events happen in my life.

Never has my human imperfection been clearer than in the month of March: it truly went in like a lion and out like a lamb.

I experienced the highest of highs and the lowest of lows, ever-changing as the March weather and wind. I laughed; I cried. I loved; I lost. I celebrated success, much as I overcame failures. I felt lost and incapable, much as I felt aware and sound. I struggled with self-doubt, dwindling self-esteem and dealt with mean people, and simultaneously rediscovered my inborn drive, positive inner voice, and inspiration.

I dreaded the future, dwelled on the past, and sometimes forgot to live in the present; yet through it all, I was not defeated.

I learned to accept and love who I am, flaws and flyaway hairs included. But most importantly, I realized that the puzzle pieces of my life, just as yours, somehow fit together perfectly through a slow, piece-by-piece process — you just have to be brave enough to take the leap of faith to live the life you imagined.

It is amazing how much a change of outlook and attitude can do for your work ethic and your relationships.

I learned the value behind the belief that “As one door closes, another one (or three in my case!) opens.” Always looking for beauty, I overcame disappointment, and a greater plan was revealed. I pressed on, worked hard, and chased after my goals, whether or not they seemed realistic at the time.

After a heartbreaking loss of a loved one and rejection, three positive things brought sunshine back into my life.

As someone who recognizes that we can often feel like hamsters on a wheel, pressing forward and going nowhere, it was refreshing to be reassured to keep running. I learned to “Keep Calm and Carry On,” and through it all, I altered my attitude and strengthened my positive outlook on life.

“Being defeated is only a temporary condition. Giving up is what makes it permanent.” -Marilyn Vos Savant.

Life is an exciting adventure, and Walt Disney would agree, “All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them!” Most of all, I am thankful to those who encouraged me, as I feel truly blessed by my recent success. An alternation in attitude through this excitement revealed that the perceived pieces of a broken puzzle started falling into place, making an even more beautiful, more complete puzzle than I could have ever imagined!

Dreams seemed to be coming true.

The cornerstone of my success is the remarkable people who shaped me into what I am today. I believe that for each thing there is a season and that everything happens for a reason.

“To everything, there is a season, a time for every purpose under the sun,” -Ecclesiastes 3: 1.

People come into your life, and people go, much as the change of each season. Cherish and value your time with them; everyone is brought into your life for a purpose and leaves a lasting impact on your life.

Anthony J. D’Angelo: “The most important things in life aren’t things.”

While success is wonderful, securing a support system and cherishing these relationships is essential in fulfilling happiness in life. Find a group of positive friends who can appreciate your dreams and build your self-esteem: I am so thankful for the friends who have supported me! Blessed by recent success, I will not forget those who held my hand through hardships, helping me get to where I am today.

I want to encourage you, too, to not let sadness, disappointment, or self-doubt stop you from pursuing your dreams. I am confident that your puzzle will get pieced together too. So what are you waiting for?

Stop puzzling: banish negative thoughts, love your friends, go after your goals and make your dream happen.

My beliefs: I believe that a strong cup of coffee is a cure-all and that a smile sparks joy. After all, Australian designer Liz Davenport said, “Your smile is your best accessory.” I believe that good things come to those who wait and that my life has a plan and purpose far greater than my own. -Proverbs

Andi Teggart

Andi Teggart is no stranger to making her big dreams come true. She is an entrepreneurial mom and the owner of Lucky Collective, a digital marketing and event planning shop,