We've all read the news and watched television about the economy. Many of our friends and colleagues have lost their jobs. People are living in fear because this is what the media surrounds us with - FEAR. Have you noticed how unbalanced the news has become? Personally I can't watch or listen any more; it's too much negative energy.

What the media generally does not tell us is about all the small companies popping up and the growth of the entrepreneurial spirit and the entrepreneurial lifestyle. Some people have started a business out of shear necessity; others because of an idea they've had in their heads for years, and still more have decided they no longer want the corporate lifestyle.

They're stepping up and out

In the long run we are all self-employed. When you get a paycheck from someone else it's important that you promote yourself in moving up in the company and advancing your own career.  In the corporate world you are still in charge of your own personal life - making your own decisions on spending, investing and planning your future.

Becoming an entrepreneur with your own business allows you the opportunity to run the whole show, do what you're passionate about, decide your income and create your perfect lifestyle.

You control your destiny.

No, it's not necessarily easy (like some people will tell you). Not everyone wants to be an entrepreneur, nor should they, but for those of us who do, the rewards can be phenomenal.

The biggest hindrance to entrepreneurs is worry, doubt and fear. In other words, YOU! We doubt our own ability to step up BIG and accomplish BIG things in our lives. So as in words of Henry David Thoreau, "Most men lead lives of quiet desperation and go to the grave with the song still in them." They doubt their abilities; fear that they will fail so do nothing instead, and worry about all of the above.

Because we doubt and second guess ourselves we also don't give ourselves the opportunity to think BIG. We think playing BIG is for others. Instead we confirm our deepest fear which grabs us before we even have an opportunity to spread our wings and show our stuff. We play average and stay in the same place that seems "good enough" and safe. It appears safe to stay where you are - but is it safe for you not to step into your greatness?  Stepping into the unknown is scary and exhilarating at the same time.

Is it not time for you to create your own vision for yourself and for your life?

Now is the time to just STOP-IT; now is the time to create your best life. You are worthy and it is time to step away from the fear that is holding you back. If not now, when? When are you going to create your ideal life and step away from your fears: fear of failure; fear of putting your greatness out for the entire world to see and fear of becoming your best self.

Is now not the BEST time to finally take charge - stop playing "safe" and be who you were meant to be? It is time to let your light shine, because if not now - when?

Start by creating your vision

Creating a vision is not a new marketing plan, a new product line or a picking a sales goal. It's about what you want your life to look like both personal and professional. It's about your lifestyle.  It does not involve the HOW - it is purely your vision of your perfect life. It's all about the WHAT. There are no limits in this exercise it's your life.

Vision Assignment: Creating a vision board is a terrific way to take your thoughts and turn them into visual piece of art. As creative types we are usually pretty visual and even though we can conjure ideas up in our heads - taking thoughts from brain to paper is a clear way to begin. Start with a large piece of paper or a cork board - collect magazines, headlines, papers, photos (you can also download from internet searches) and start arranging your vision on the board - with headlines, inspirations. It's an inspiring task. One thing leads to another and soon you'll have your vision for your life.

Once you have that vision take an action to make it happen - and do it NOW!