The First Step

I first became interested in blogging when I read an article about freelancing; it told me that blogging was the best way to go, but I had never read, written, or even really heard about it. What was it? What was it about? I love freelancing, as it has given me a way to make money on the side and explore myself as I do so. I have met some fantastic people doing it, those I am proud to have written for. However, what I was doing did not pay well. I had not learned self respect and self management. Blogging, I read, was to help promote myself and bring myself control.

So, it seemed I must become a blogger. I started a Twitter for my website—but I was still lost. I followed bloggers, read some of their blogs. There is so much diversity in the blogging community that I was "bloggled!" That's when I realized that there was no right way to do it, and I would simply have to write. That was something that had always been a passion, but it always seemed like I was assigned a topic, or at least basic guidelines.

I came to Vocal, hopeful. Yet, again I stalled. There was no tutorial, no guide—no outline. What could I write about? I had no subject. In the end, I realized that if I never wrote a blog, I would never start blogging, I would have put so much time and effort in for nothing. It was a simple realization, but one that I had not yet considered. What could I write about to wow others?

That is the way that life works. The first step is the hardest—with your first step, you are acknowledging that maybe the ground is not solid, and you may fall. You may fail. However, by taking that first step, you are setting yourself on a path that will lead you to the future. Then comes the second step, the third step, and a regular rhythm that will eventually become no stranger than your heart beating in your chest. It is steps like these that will build your self confidence and character.

We may want to do, but that is so much different than doing. If we do not pursue our dreams, then the dream will remain that. A dream. By not taking a leap of faith, we are cheating ourselves and denying our own potential. How many people are stuck in dead-end jobs because they have not the capacity and courage to do more? My own mother could be working for double her pay—but she does not do so because it would require slightly more responsible and change.

Too many opportunities in your life will be missed simply because you were afraid. Fear keeps us alive, but, unchecked, it will hinder us. It will prevent our growth. Our amygdala is the fear center of the brain—it tells us to fear, but it does not control what we do in response to fear.

As a species, we have grown from those that took their first steps, and often defied their times' definition of "normal."

What are you waiting for? Whether it is picking up a pen, participating in your local talent show, or signing up for the military, just remember that phrase: What am I waiting for?

Caution is a necessity, but it is not a way of life.

This is my first blog. It is my first step. I don't know if I am doing it right, but here I am. Do not be afraid to walk down the path that you desire.