I think about my hiking endeavors. I had climbed the Bighorn Mountain a couple of times with significant elevation and a full geared up backpack for a week of climbing and living out in nature.

When you’re taking on a challenge, whether it be in business, health or love you must prepare well for the journey. For me I did a lot of training and managed these adventures well. But I do want to create a distinction of what success is.

In any life challenge there will likely be some fear or doubt. I say this because it’s a challenge and you’re stretching yourself. I think we lose sight of what actually sources the challenge—which is not the mountain or business goal—it is not the what you are moving to.

The challenge is in mastering the self. As you release fears and doubts, as you move towards that vision of success, the outcome may not be the same as you originally thought, or it may be. But the true success comes in you growing into a more present powerful and capable person.

This year I encourage you to take on your challenges well.

I think back to a time I decided I must do a solo silent retreat. Alone in my home, I took a breath, made the commitment and then unplugged from life for 10 days. The first couple of days were so hard. I struggled with my feelings of isolation and loneliness but as I was able to hold the space for myself to feel the fear and discomfort, I began to feel a new kind of luscious peace.

As we begin our new year, and look to bring the body along with the spirit mind and emotions, we look to releasing body trauma and fears that diminish our light and our power. How can you hold the space to heal your wounds, and live a richer life, on of fully expressed human life and the new path of ascension?