"You are the architect of your own future, so design your future with love and light."

Imagine you're an architect standing before a blank canvas. That's your future. This idea is all about taking control of your own destiny. It's saying that you have the power to shape what lies ahead, and you should do it with positivity and kindness. Instead of letting life just happen to you, you get to design it.

Now, let's put this in some context. Maybe the person who said this had gone through something tough, like a big life change or a challenging period. They realized that, rather than letting circumstances dictate their life, they could take charge. This realization probably gave them a sense of freedom and responsibility. It’s like they had an “aha!” moment and wanted to share it with others.

Think about Steve Jobs for a second. When he was ousted from Apple in 1985, he didn’t just sit around feeling sorry for himself. Instead, he founded NeXT and eventually bought Pixar. These moves, fueled by his vision and passion, didn't just lead to personal success. They also changed whole industries. Jobs designed his future with love for innovation and light from his unyielding vision.

So, how can you apply this in your own life? Start with small steps. Maybe you've always wanted to learn an instrument or start a new hobby. Don't wait for the "right" time. Just start. See where your curiosity and passion take you. Set goals, but be kind to yourself if things don't go exactly as planned. The key is to keep moving forward with a positive mindset. Sketch out what you want your life to look like and start building it, one piece at a time.

Let’s talk about a relatable scenario. Imagine you've just graduated from college. The job market is tough, and you're not sure what you want to do. Instead of panicking, you take a step back. You think about what you're passionate about—maybe it's helping others, being creative, or solving complex problems. You start looking for opportunities that align with those passions. You might take a job that’s not perfect but gets your foot in the door. You volunteer, you network, you keep learning. Bit by bit, you’re building a future that’s uniquely yours, filled with the things you love and care about.

Remember my friend Laura? She was in a dead-end job she hated. One day, she decided enough was enough. She went back to school for graphic design—something she’d always loved but never pursued. It wasn’t easy. There were late nights, self-doubt, and financial strain. But she did it. Now, she works for a cool startup, doing what she loves every day. She designed her future, and it’s full of love and light.

In essence, take the reins of your own life. Be the architect. Sketch out what you want, make plans, and build with love and light. Sure, there will be challenges. But with a positive mindset and a little persistence, you’ll create something beautiful. Think of your future like a building you’re constructing brick by brick. Each decision, each action, is a brick. Make sure they’re laid with care and intention. That’s how you’ll create a future you’re proud of.