Life is a series of choices. One after the next, we decide how our lives will play out. From what we will do to who we eventually become, each decision we make shapes our lives in incredible ways. We may even change the shape of our bodies to hold life and welcome a new being into the world. And once we cradle that new life in our arms, our lives deepen in rich and extraordinary ways.

But life is bound to throw us a curveball here and there. And within are opportunities to grow and change the trajectory of our lives for the better. We may not know what the future holds, but our actions today, tomorrow, and the next day set the path for what those snapshots may look like. Each choice leads us on a path toward the next, and the next.

So whether you are happy with your current life or not, take a step back and truly look at where and who you are with clear eyes. Understand that this is not based on any one individual in your life—only you. You’ve chosen to be here—not them. Remove the judgement and worry. Take out the fear and hesitation. Simply look at the way your choices have led you to this current moment in time.

If you don’t like what you see, set the wheels in motion to change it. If you feel you cannot change it for one reason or another, or the timing is not right to make a change, do not dwell in “poor me” or “I wish things could change”. Instead, accept that everything you have experienced, whether happy, painful, sad, or beautiful‚ has the potential to bring about good in your life. Can you open yourself up to see it?

Your choices have led you to this very moment. Trace your next steps to create the life you love.