Ever ask yourself, "What makes you tick?" Living a busy life doesn't automatically equate with personal fulfillment. Being all you can be doesn't mean you have to join the military. Yet, it is difficult to consider your own personal needs when confronted with the demands of daily life.

Still, most of us aspire for something deeper and more meaningful.

We all have problems, but those obstacles should serve as stepping stones to becoming who we feel we are destined to be.

So take a few minutes and consider the following questions. Be honest with yourself. Whatever your answers, don't engage in self-condemnation or any kind of negative self-talk. Instead congratulate yourself for being able to recognize who you truly are and take baby steps, if need be, to move toward fully becoming that person.

1. What do I really want?
This is the question of the ages. After my husband died, I discovered I no longer knew what I wanted. I knew what I didn't want...but it took me a long time to determine what I wanted.

2. Am I comfortable with what I'm doing?
For every element, there's an easy way --- and there's a right way. If you're feeling dissatisfaction, but tolerating it, the "easy" way will eventually consume you. And you may find it is not really easy at all. On the other hand, if your dissatisfaction is minor, a change in perspective may alleviate it altogether.

3. Am I happy at where I am today?
You're the only one who can answer that for yourself. Just don't allow the opinions of others dictate your happiness.

4. Should I really change?
If you're comfortable with yourself, happy and feeling fulfilled, then the answer is "no." If that's not you, then know there is a price to change. You must determine if the change you want to make is worth the cost. If it is, then go for it! Don't let anyone nor anything stand in your way!

5. What's the bright side in all of this?
Knowing what makes you tick, makes you a stronger, more confident and self-assured individual. You know how to appreciate the seasons of life, celebrating the victories and learning from failures. And the best part is -- knowing who you are, you can appreciate others and teach them how to be the best they, too, can be.