"Every man is more than just himself; he also represents the unique, the very special and always significant and remarkable point at which the world's phenomena intersect, only once in this way and never again."

Herman Hesse (1877-1962) German-born Swiss
writer, "Siddhartha", "Steppenwolf"

Whilst at a Business Womens Club meeting last week, I heard an interesting talk on Drugs and Forensic Science. As the mother of three children, I try to keep as up-to-date as I can about drugs, but it was something that the speaker, a Detective Chief Inspector, said with regards to forensic investigations that set my mind going. He was speaking about footprints and how they can help in tracking someone down, as each of us walks in an individual way.

I know he was talking about forensics, but I started thinking about how each of us are walking our own paths, converging and diverging with the paths of others along the way, leaving our own individual, unique footprints where we pass, although in most situations not being aware of it.

What kind of footprints are you leaving? Wherever you go, do you leave a good impression or a negative one? How do you wish to pass through your life? Have you ever really thought about it? The footprints may fade away, but what impact have you had on other peoples lives? It is certainly something to ponder.

There is no doubt that having others cooperate with you in your pursuit of your goals makes the journey an easier one. Do you have a support network in place? If not, perhaps it is time to think about gathering one around you. You can be supportive in return. Make a list of those people you would like to share your aspirations with, who will be pleased to add their footsteps to yours along the way. Schedule in your diary when you will contact them.

Have you been walking in circles or standing on the same spot? What do you need to do to get going again? Take that first step and get it done. Do you need assistance? Ask someone from your support team. They will be flattered and happy to help.

Are you walking your own path or one prescribed by someone else? How do you feel about that? Do you need to diverge from the trail and plan your own route? Consider your options and start making plans. Being brave enough to plot and follow your own course takes a lot of determination. That determination comes from a want or need that drives you along. Do you feel that want inside you? It can be almost like an ache. Recognize it? Now is the time to act on it.

Talking about footsteps, how about adding more walking into your day? Park further from the office, or away from the store. Do you really need to drive or can you walk instead? Use the stairs. Have a walk around to stop you from getting desk-bound. Use the opportunity to chat to people. (Getting to know more people for your support network?) Have you ever wanted to learn to dance? It doesnt matter what kind. Dance is a pastime that combines creativity with activity. Use those feet and get going! Put on some of your favorite music and strut your stuff. You may not be an expert, but Im certain itll at least make you laugh!

What direction are you headed in today? Do you always do things the same way? Think about altering your routine and adding something new into it. It may be a success, it may not. Youll never know until you try! And if its not, what can you learn from the experience?

Walking costs only time and shoe leather. Choosing to tread your own path and leave footprints you are proud of costs nothing but resolve and determination. What kind of footprints will you be leaving?