Take chances. Be brave. Believe in yourself.
Those are things I try to instill in Will. I've seen the little guy overcome stage fright and take on a speaking role in our church Christmas pageant. I've watched him overcome nerves playing in his first flag football game. This year, I've witnessed him challenge himself to become a better writer in school.
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It's easy for any one of us to become complacent or to become comfortable in our daily routines. Think about it: It's scary to step out and try something new or leave a familiar surrounding.
This week, I'm starting a new job in the communications department with the City of Raleigh. Will asked me if I was scared. I was honest and said, "yes!" But I also explained how - no matter your age - we all need to continually challenge ourselves and strive to keep learning new things. We all need to believe in ourselves, be brave and take chances.
A few years ago, my alma mater, Sweet Briar College, nearly closed. Alumna banded together and saved the school in spectacular fashion. To this day, one of the rallying cries among students is, "there is nothing you can not do."
I remind Will (and myself) of that daily.
Julia is a mom of a grade schooler and a former reporter for WRAL-TV. She now works for the city of Raleigh. Find her here monthly.