A new year. A clean slate. A new beginning. All different spins on an event that is commemorated across the globe with fanfare and reflection. Why the fuss? So we moved from one year to another. What is the big deal?

For many, a new year offers the promise of something better, a renewal if you will. The sorry commentary is that this new hope, often times, is quickly dashed when the reality of the new year begins to look and feel a lot like last year. The enthusiasm and excitement for new opportunities is diminished as continued challenges and perceived limitations continue.

Fitness club membership sales increase dramatically in January because individuals use the new year to commit to weight loss and improved fitness. Gym attendance is at its highest during the month of January thanks to individuals that commit to shedding a few extra pounds. It is interesting, however, to see how gym attendance decreases in the month of February.

The sorry commentary is that humans are like water; we prefer the path of least resistance. Instead of putting in the effort required to create something new and better in our lives, we tend to fall back on old, comfortable ways. Personal discipline gives way to relaxed, comfort-loving tendencies.  

Creating something new (and improved) requires persistence, dedication and, in some cases, a bit of a tolerance for pain - thus the adage, "no pain, no gain." Our natural tendency is to avoid pain. Ironically, a certain level of pain or effort is required to see progress and movement.

Instead, we humans tend to regress and move into "pinball mode" where we simply bounce off the bumpers life gives us that propel us in a different direction. We choose not to exert personal force to give our lives greater direction.

This is not living, it is merely existing. Instead of acting upon our circumstances, we choose to react.

We are capable of better, far better. It does require effort and, yes, maybe, even some discomfort. Ask anyone who has accomplished something of worth. They will tell you sacrifice and pain were required. Many will tell you it was worth it. Most likely, past personal victories will reinforce the value of effort.

So . . . what is required? Effort. Nothing more, nothing less. Easy, no. Worthwhile, yes.

It all starts with a plan, a plan accompanied with action. Determine what plan you wish to put into play in your life then establish smaller plans or goals to move you toward your end objective.

Like Alice in Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland, we will encounter many forks in the road as we journey through this adventure we call life. A life with purpose that has a plan will help better determine which fork in the road we should take when confronted with important decisions.

Life is worth planning. Take charge. You will be impressed with your progress as you commit to daily planning and monitoring. Do it. There is no better time than the present to bring about change.