Giving our best effort is what we all strive to do. Initially we are always highly motivated to do something new, and yet, overtime, we can lose energy to consistently give our best and that’s when we can lose sight of our goals and dreams for the future.
No matter what it is we are trying to achieve in life, if we do it half-heartedly we will get a half-hearted result and this can leave us feeling depleted and unmotivated.
Often when we take on important actions or changes that can alter the course of our lives, we convince ourselves that we will never falter but sometimes a few weeks into it, we lose our ability to keep our energy up and we end up going backwards. Why is this?
* Fear of change
Most of us feel comfortable knowing and doing what we have always done and so stepping into the unknown is scary and at times it can feel overwhelming.
* Low expectations of Yourself
Often we don’t believe in ourselves enough to expect more. When we have low self-esteem or feel unworthy, we often avoid stepping out and setting big goals or expecting great results for ourselves.
* Don’t know how to begin
So how do we get the confidence we need to expect more of ourselves and step into the unknown? Well, I found there is usually only one way, and that is to “Just step-up and do it.” Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Being willing is not enough; we must do.
* Give up when the going gets tough
Change can be very difficult and requires a great effort daily to work through our fear of change. However, when we have pushed through those early uncomfortable stages, we will arrive at a space that allows us to become re-energised and that encourages us to know that change is happening and that our goals are achievable.
Be patient for change, we have often spent years doing the same things with the same responses, attitude, and beliefs and it takes time to adjust and move through it. When we apply our best effort each day one step at a time, in every aspect of our life, we will begin to achieve more than we thought.
“The worst thing one can do is not to try, to be aware of what one wants and not do it, to spend years in silent hurt wondering if something could have materialized – and never knowing” – David Viscott
LIVING IN THIS MOMENT 
Wonderful article….absolutely….sticking to it …..consistency is at the core
Thank you so much for your comment, yes consistency always equals results!
Karen
This summarizes exactly what is holding me back. Thanks.
Your welcome Elizabeth and from reading your inspiring posts I’m pretty sure you are making a big effort!
Terrific post! Perfect way to start the day…thanks!
Thankyou so much. Yes everyday we have the opportunity to start again.
Karen
Great post Karen! Moving from “”shoulding” to taking action – even the smallest step – is the only way things will change for us.
I also love the quote:
Growth never happens in the comfortable!
Val x
Thankyou Val, I find taking the first step is always the hardest but when I work through my challenges and see good results I am so glad I made the effort.
Great and valuable post, Karen.
The best effort anyone can make, is to make it, when your heart is not in it.
-Alan
Thankyou Alan. You are right and often the days we dont want to make an effort is exactly the days we need to the most.
Karen
Karen I love this post, I tell my children they only have to look at me to know nothing comes easily. They have watched me follow my dreams and I am working hard to finish my first picture book. It took a beating from an editor critique and they see me learn a lesson or two and keep going. We have to hone our skills and learn as much as we can. I agree we need to give it out all. Thank you for and inspiring post.
PS Love the ant too gorgeous picture.
Its so true Kath, we are their role models so if they see us work through our challenges and survive they will be more likely to as well. How exciting you are working on a book! I wish you lots of energy and effort to complete.
PS I love the ant too, I think it depicts exactly how hard it seems sometimes.
Karen
Thank you Karen, a brilliant post, I love it. So very timely!
Thankyou Leesa, I’m so glad it resonated with you today. One step and day at a time is all we need to achieve! If the ant can do it (picture) ha, so can we.
Karen
This post is packed with wisdom Karen – thanks for the encouragement to keep at it!
Diana xo
Your comments are always so positive and encouraging Diana! Many blessings to you.
Karen
Thank you for this. It’s just what I needed to hear at this time.
Thankyou. I am so glad it was what you needed.
Karen
Karen, i love the image of the ant! Your post is bang on…it ought to be taped up on every person’s refrigerator as a daily reminder.
Thankyou for stopping by! Yes I love the ant too, and you are right, its a great inspiration for us.
Karen
I am guilty of all four account and intend to change it. Thanks for writing this!
Thankyou Jasmine and the beauty of a new day is a new beginning to start again. Many blessings.
Karen