What remarkable courage and strength Thomas Jefferson and the other Founding Fathers displayed when they declared the 13 American colonies free of the British Empire! Adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence is America’s cornerstone. Just as this extraordinary announcement gave birth to the United States, you also can commit to new beginnings.

Are you at a crossroads - looking for a new job, exploring a new career, considering work in a different way or re-entering the workplace? Are you now ready to take a stand and move on to the next chapter in your work life?

The key is the cornerstone

Realize that you come from a position of strength and choice. Never ever regard your capabilities, experience and aspirations disparagingly. Value them! Promise!! You’re able to do what it takes to accomplish your goals.

Write your own Declaration of Independence

Each of you has unique declarations that help you focus and motivate you. Here a few for starters.

I boldly declare that I now have the freedom to:

* Explore career options, entertain new ways of working and remain open to discovery

* Fully pursue professional opportunities that will serve and support me—spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, socially and financially

* Develop and express my talents in ways that bring me satisfaction and make a significant contribution

* Declare freedom from the tyranny of negative, self-limiting false beliefs. I manage the fears I have about my prospects for success.

Commit your declaration to action

A declaration affirms, promises, commits. As Abraham Lincoln wisely said, “Commitment is what transforms a promise into reality.” What commitments would you like to make to your future now?

You may be at a turning point, ready to build a new foundation. What resources do you pledge to your vision—including the energy, time and effort needed to reach your goal?

1. Create an action plan. Map out your strategies and commit to a timeline to focus your efforts.

2. A balanced day is essential. But free yourself from tempting distractions that pull you off course and undermine your discipline.

3. Market your talents and capabilities to a well-chosen audience - consistently and frequently.

4. If you think that your skill set needs strengthening or updating, get more training, education or certification.

Declare your independence to explore, discover and pursue career options that support you.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. - Second sentence, The Declaration of Independence, housed at the National Archives in Washington, D.C.

Today’s question

What declarations would you like to make today that will create the foundation of a new beginning?