"Destiny is ours to create. It is a living masterpiece designed by the heart." - Flavia Weedn Human nature is created so that you can choose your destiny.

In order to know your destiny you must realize that your life is in a constant state of change. The key to deciding your destiny is to be one of the few who know where you are going and exactly how to get there. With each step along the way you develop experience. You enrich your learning.

Since your life is always developing and expanding as you learn new things, you can create your own story and the direction you want it to take. Only you have the power to do this. It is called making choices.

With any one decision, you make a choice of changing your destiny. In order to make a choice that may change your destiny, you must know yourself and what you are creating moment by moment. What you do in the present moment brings you closer to being in command of your destiny. When you focus on past experiences and the knowledge you've gained from school, work, society, the economy, business, and your spiritual training, you begin to know yourself. When you entertain and repeat certain thoughts, you put the finishing touches on your destiny. Some of these repetitive thoughts - and some you may not be unaware of include: ¨Always showing positive and not negative feelings toward others.

¨Know you're smart even if it takes you a little longer to understand a point. ¨Know that failures can lead to success. ¨Welcome problems because they are learning tools. ¨Know that there is untapped skill and creativity in everything you attempt. ¨Remember that God put you on earth to win.

¨That prosperity comes to those who believe it will happen. ¨Giving quality service to your customers will result in a quantity of customers. ¨Valuing yourself and making a commitment to excellence is worth striving for.

¨Treating others with respect and kindness measures your spirituality. Yet, just knowing without thinking how you respond to life is the art of self-awareness and living in the present moment. Being aware of each moment is a part of your true being. And as you keep these thoughts uppermost in your mind, you have the power to be guided by them. Other ways to measure the power of your thoughts is to limit any thoughts that are not productive.

Some of these may include: ¨ Not feeling guilty when you say, "No." ¨Refusing to cater to the demands of others. This is not a selfish act. ¨Saying, 'yes, when you mean 'no' may cause resentment.' ¨Not feeling 'stupid' if you don't understand something.

Rather then make a mistake when instructions are unclear, don't be afraid to ask for clarification. This is a sign of good judgment. ¨Thinking that everything you do is solely your own doing. Be confident and have enough faith to know that your life is guided by a higher power.

This confirms your spirituality. ¨Ignoring opportunities to change. Growth comes with change. Remember, life is in a constant state of change.

Be ready for any worthwhile challenge or opportunity to grow. ¨ Worrying. Some of the best opportunities are missed when you worry and procrastinate until the opportunity has come and gone. Learn to be decisive. What's the worst possible scenario? How hurt would you feel if you missed the opportunity? Whatever you do, and wherever you are in life, watch and be aware of any signs of negativity, anger, fear, or procrastination. Get rid of biased opinions.

Be open to other ways of thinking. Let your new founded self-awareness lead you to a life where you are free to choose your own dreams and goals. So make the best of your thoughts and your thoughts will make the best you. That's your destiny.

Gerri D Smith, publishes a Free newsletter to inspire, encourage, and support individuals, women business owners, and entrepreneurs. A subscriber says: "Thank you, Gerri! You are such an inspiration to us!"--D. B. Ford, Laganville, GA. Visit: http://www.distinctivebusinesswomen.com