Chapter 1: The Awakening

Could today mark the beginning of a transformative journey in your life? It’s a thought worth considering.

Connie Ragen Green — Embracing Change

In the early hours of spring 2005, I awoke suddenly, drenched in sweat. Startled my little dog in the process, I hurried to my desk to capture my thoughts. Everything felt intensified—vivid colors, sharper sounds, and even the sensation of my pen gliding across the paper was exhilarating. I spent over an hour writing, then read my words aloud.

The fundamental truth was clear: I craved a new life. After nearly two decades in the classroom, I was eager for a change—something fresh and invigorating. Although I was also working as a real estate broker and appraiser, I had mentally disengaged from these roles, merely going through the motions to fulfill my obligations.

Little did I know, that day marked the beginning of a significant shift in my life. I recognized my feelings and documented them, creating a roadmap for a more joyful and fulfilling existence.

Instead of returning to bed, I tackled my daily tasks. My days were often long, with me away from home for fourteen to fifteen hours. My routine was strict, leaving no room for anything outside of teaching, real estate, and caring for my aging mother. I had built a life based on necessity and duty, for which I felt grateful. I enjoyed a comfortable home and a reliable car, with just enough resources to provide for my mother's needs and the occasional vacation.

However, just two years prior, I had suffered an injury at work and spent nearly six months on Worker’s Compensation. That period was dark, casting doubt on everything I valued, including my teaching career. Although I emerged from that experience, the physical and emotional toll lingered.

Years earlier, I had battled cancer and taken nine months off work, which led to unprecedented financial struggles. But now, in April 2005, I was ready to embrace the future, the unknown, and the possibilities it held. I desired this to be the first day of my new life, even if I didn’t articulate it that way at the moment.

Opportunities soon unfolded. A friend invited me to a real estate convention in downtown Los Angeles. Though hesitant, I felt a strong urge to attend. There, I met the man who would become my first mentor. Shortly after, I attended a conference and boldly declared my intention to leave teaching and real estate behind to pursue an online business.

I could feel the excitement building within me, and joy radiated in that room, yet it felt surreal. It would take me a couple of years to realize that I was finally allowing my creative instincts to surface. I had never seen myself as a leader or entrepreneur, let alone a creative individual, but that perception was about to change.

Chapter 2: Nurturing Creativity

In my journey, I’ve maintained a close friendship with Jim Edwards for nearly 15 years. He was among the first to support my transition to an online entrepreneur. Recently, he shared valuable insights about creativity, which I’m excited to pass along, along with my thoughts.

Let’s inject some fun into creativity:

• Let go of the fear of looking silly and choose to enjoy the process. (Sometimes, I intentionally act a bit goofy to connect with those around me.)
• Wear a smile and have fun—pretend you’re enjoying it, and you will! (I’ve found this technique helpful during mundane waits, like at the post office.)
• Give yourself the freedom to be silly, just like a five-year-old. Adults tend to take things too seriously! (Try doodling or crafting a whimsical story—who says it has to make sense?)
• Anticipate joy during the creative process, and it will manifest! (What we expect often comes true, so aim high!)

Give it a shot!

• Embrace the belief that anyone can become a leader; it’s an intuitive skill ingrained in our life journey.

Will today mark the start of the rest of your life? If you’re interested in tapping into your creativity through writing an eBook, Jim’s training is unparalleled, and the cost is incredibly reasonable. Explore it and get started immediately.

I’m Connie Ragen Green, a creative futurist dedicated to helping others comprehend, implement, and experience the notion that today is the first day of the rest of your life. Join me as we uncover the possibilities that await you.