So many of us get caught up in the past: past issues, past relationships, past mistakes, etc... We tend to give away our thoughts and energy of today to days and events that no longer exist. An unfortunate reality of this type of thinking is that we tend to lose sight of our true power and purpose. And we lose sight of the truth that we are free to change – to refine, improve, or enhance ourselves at any moment.

The value of a moment is immeasurable. The power of just ONE moment can propel you to success and happiness or chain you to failure and misery.

What if you could break free from the shackles of self blame, criticism, and disempowered limiting thought?

We all make mistakes, have struggles, and even regret things in our past. But you are not your mistakes, you are not your struggles, and you are here NOW with the power to shape your day and your future.

Today, many will awaken with a fresh sense of inspiration and leave the ghost of yesterday behind, why not you?

Today greets you with no rules or conditions. The only requirement to see all it has to offer is to live it full out. Each day brings immeasurable blessings and opportunities for happiness and success. Like a gift, beautifully wrapped at the foot of your bed each morning, today asks that you open it and enjoy everything inside. Exhaust yourself with all it has to offer! Laugh, cry, say “I love you”, say “I’m sorry”, truly LIVE the day… When was the last time you did this? Squeeze all the juices the day has to offer, then, at the end of the day, go to sleep knowing that tomorrow morning another gift will be waiting.

It’s when we continue to look into the box of yesterday or last year or ten years ago that we feel depressed, trapped, and defeated. But the good news is that if you just open your eyes and look, you would see today’s box, today’s gift is waiting. Let go of yesterday, forget it. It’s already forgotten you. Embrace the only day in which you have any power. Today!

Make a pact with yourself today to not be defined by your past. Instead, shake things up today! Live through today. Don’t just exist through it - LIVE through it! Have a plan for success and make sure your actions reflect that plan.

Your dream is a reality that is waiting for you to materialize.

Today is a new day! Don’t let your history interfere with your destiny! Learn from your past so that it can empower your present and propel you to greatness.

©Steve Maraboli

Author's Bio: 

Acclaimed business trainer, speaker, best-selling author, radio show host, and philanthropist, Steve Maraboli has risen to international prominence as a recognized leader in business development, personal enhancement, peak performance and an authority on the human potential.

Steve's philanthropic company, A Better Today, Inc., creates and delivers education and empowerment programs throughout the USA and over 46 countries. His popular radio show, Empowered Living, has been heard by millions across the globe and has become a meeting place for today’s great thinkers and communicators as well as a showcase for his powerful seminars.

Steve's first book, "Life, the Truth, and Being Free", has been recognized by media and readers around the globe as a masterpiece of wisdom. Steve’s second book, "The Power Of One", is a celebration of community and will open the reader’s eyes to the wonderful experiences and synchronicities that come with recognizing the power we all have to shape our world… One kind gesture at a time, One person at a time, One day at a time.