Are you looking forward to 2023? It’s a good bet your life has been a series of painful events. You’re wondering if there’s a way out, and maybe you feel like something is missing from your life. The truth is that something is missing: Hope. You see, without hope, nothing changes.

But here’s the thing: Even when it seems like your world has come undone, there’s an invitation waiting for you to step into a new story. And guess what? The future is unknown, open, and waiting for us to create it.

You can take control of your life and design it in whatever style you desire. It’s never too late for a personal reinvention — a chance to add something new without fear or worry. Remember that you can change the story no matter what chapter you’re in. So why not make it a good one?

As we look back on the year that was, let’s take a moment to appreciate how far we have come and consider what we can do in the future.

Life is a treasure trove of stories, and we can all write unique narratives. Yet many people are unaware they can take matters into their own hands -unlocking what could be an extraordinary life.

We can all fashion incredible stories if we open ourselves up to them! And a whole new world awaits anyone brave enough to pivot their tale in a fresh, positive direction.

Here are a few things you should keep in mind when you begin a new story:

• Set challenging but realistic goals to achieve them within a year
• Focus on what makes you happy and ensures your happiness
• Make sure your goals align with your values
• Don’t compare yourself to others

Be mindful of how much time you spend doing things that matter vs. wasting time on things that don’t matter.

And so, I invite you to be courageous in taking on new and meaningful challenges. Why not learn a new language, and take a Capoeira dance class, which is half dance, half combat — this is the beauty of Brazilian martial arts. Or over-water rock climbing in Thailand.

Whatever it is, take a chance to make your thoughts come to life and experience what’s important to you.

For some, it might be asking your boss for a raise or learning to cook Vietnamese. These inspirational endeavors bring us one step closer to our dreams, no matter how daunting they may seem! And for others, it may mean opportunities to make a public impact — volunteering at a homeless shelter or lending time to important causes. Whatever challenge you choose, the most minor steps can have huge ripple effects.

I invite you to listen to those around you who feel unheard and misunderstood.

I invite you not only to care about what happens next but also about why it matters and how it affects us all.

I invite you to take the time daily to care for and nourish the soul. Your soul is the garden of your life. The soil in which your dreams grow. The sunshine that nourishes them. And the water that keeps them alive. Whether that means meditation, journaling, dancing, or eating well, do whatever works best for you!

And I invite you all to join me on this journey as we enter another year together as members of this human race!

Be courageous and remember that even the smallest steps can have an effect far beyond what we see.

So, what will YOU write for your 2023 life story?

Cheers to the endless possibilities that words hold and being our best selves every day. Use imagination, hope, courage — and a lot of humor — to find inspiration within yourself: Believe in YOU!

Wishing you the best year ever!