Can you believe we're already wrapping up 2017? The years really do go faster and faster. I was having a conversation the other day with my husband and for him, 2017 wasn't the best year. He said, "I'm so ready for 2017 to be over. I really hope 2018 is better."

I thought for a minute, and you know what... I got a little irritated. He said the same thing about 2016. And probably 2015. And who knows how many years before that. 

I'm not trying to bag on him because that's the way most of us are conditioned to live our lives. We get caught up in our routines, living each day the same. We are creatures of habit, and old habits die hard. Some people hope that one year things will be different. One day things will change. So they continue waiting... sadly watching their lives pass them by year after year.

I tend to live life a little differently. Every year at the end of the year, I write out what I'm most proud of and all I've achieved (including internal shifts and healing that occurred). I then write out what I want to achieve or focus on the next year.

And you know what? Even if I had a year where "bad" things have happened - because let's face it, that's part of life and we all have those years, I still feel like it's been more amazing and incredible than the previous year. Why?

Because rather than sitting back and hoping or wishing, I TAKE ACTION. I change things up. I make an effort for things to be different. So things are different. I am different.  

If we don't do anything different next year, we can pretty much bet that 2018 will be a repeat of 2017. Now I'm not saying we have to take massive action like moving cities or quitting our jobs (although these can be super exciting and possibly what we need!). Even making subtle shifts will lead to positive change.

Here's what I mean:
 
Did you have a health scare in 2017? How can you improve your health in 2018? Start juicing or cut back on processed foods.

Want more freedom in your life? Start a lifestyle business where eventually you can work from wherever, whenever you want (like this one I've created here!).

Tired of being lethargic or low on energy? Set your alarm 30 minutes earlier and get your workout in.

Not earning the money you desire? Read a book on money mindset and start creating diversified streams of revenue (investments, rental properties, or start a side business, etc.).

Want to improve your relationships? Put your phone down and focus on being present with those you're with (your children included). 

Tired of dragging yourself day in and day out to your boring, soul-sucking, or meaningless job? Hire a coach to help figure out what you really want to do and create a plan to move into it.

Keep wasting that gym membership? Try a yoga studio instead.

Feeling anxious or depressed? Learn to reconnect with yourself. Start a gratitude journal. Develop a meditation practice. Or even just sit in quiet each day for 10 minutes (it's amazing how powerful this is - trust me).

Whatever is you want to do, write it down and put it in a place where you'll see it every day so you remember what you're working towards.

Do you see where I'm going here? If you're hoping 2018 will be better than 2017, it probably won't be. But if you take time to quiet your mind, listen to what your heart and soul are telling you, and take inspired action from that place, I guarantee 2018 will be one of your best years ever.

So what are you going to do differently in 2018? Comment below, I'd love to know!

For me... I'm investing in myself by working with my own coach. I'm going to focus on healing and clearing limiting beliefs - and reprogramming my subconscious. I'm going to start doing videos to connect with you on a deeper level and expand my business.

I'm going to bring the adventure back into my life by traveling overseas more again. And I'm also going to continue stripping things back in my life. Letting go of things that really don't feel like me, and filling my life up with things that do. 

I hope this is helpful for you, and that it inspires you to take action in your life to make 2018 a really wonderful year. Life is so precious, so short, and truly is a gift that not everyone is guaranteed. You are here for a reason. You do have a purpose to fulfill here on earth. Don't let it slip through your fingers or let your potential go untapped.

You really are meant for more, and life is supposed to be fun, enjoyable, full of excitement, adventure, freedom, and love. You have the power within you to make life all of those things - but you must do something differently today.   

Sending so much love and light to you - and may 2018 be the year your dreams come true!

Love,

Erica xx

P.S. If you would like further guidance, I'd like to invite you to watch my FREE Masterclass to find your life purpose and start planning your escape!!

What changes are you going to make this year?

Leave me a comment below & hold yourself accountable!   

About Erica

Erica Carrico is an International Life Purpose Coach, world traveler, adventure seeker, free spirit, and mommy of 2. 

Through coaching services, speaking, and writing, Erica helps holistic & spiritual professionals who are frustrated and stuck in the wrong career, discover their life purpose and start a soul-aligned business so they can finally earn a living doing what they absolutely love. What they were put on earth to do. 

Erica has a BS in Psychology, an MS in Nonprofit Management, life and career coaching certifications, 12+ years experience in business leadership and international recruitment, built a fully-booked soul-aligned business within a year, has traveled through over 50 different countries, and is obsessed with helping thousands of people all around the world live lives full of passion, purpose, freedom, and adventure. 

To follow more of Erica’s work, you can find her hanging out on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and LINKED IN.