Don't Just Wake Up Tomorrow, Rise and Shine

Every day we are faced with the task of getting out of bed. And let’s face it, some days are easier than others. But the first action we take, the first thing we do every morning that potentially sets the tone for the rest of our day, is to get out of bed. So why just “wake up”? Why not “Rise and Shine”?

 

What’s the difference you ask? Think about it. “Waking up” is the sort of thing you do day-in and day-out out of necessity, habit or routine. It’s monotonous. But to “rise” every morning is to elevate yourself, bring yourself to a higher place than before. It’s inspirational and allows you to greet the day with a sense of purpose and determination. So, don't just wake up tomorrow. Rise. Like the Phoenix from its ashes, rise in the morning and begin the day anew. Free yourself from your past and whatever problems you faced yesterday and start fresh. Rise, empowered to conquer the day. Rise, and continue your journey, ascending to greater heights each day. Rise, like a wounded fighter who has been knocked down but knows to keep fighting, never giving up. When that alarm sounds, open your eyes, let the sun in like fire, and RISE.

 

But “rising” is only half of it. You also must also “shine.” That’s right. Start your day by letting yourself shine. Be your best self. Take your gifts and talents and give them to the world. Be a beacon of light and hope that inspires others around you to do the same. Be confident. Know that you are amazing and that you illuminate the world around you. You have so much to give by just by being you. Let yourself SHINE.

 

That is what it takes to be successful. Success comes through perseverance and resilience. Every great athlete will tell you that they have suffered many losses despite their victories. As Michael Jordan once famously said:

 

"I've  missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I've been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed."

Similarly, every great artist will recall the many rejections they had to face first before finally making it. And every great entrepreneur will have had several businesses and ideas fail before seeing one prosper.

It’s not enough to just wake up the next day. If you want to be successful and achieve something great, you have to open your eyes and begin each day more inspired and determined than the one before. You have to be prepared for even harder challenges than you faced yesterday, and be willing to stand up and say, “bring it.” You have to RISE, and SHINE.