When I’ve asked people how they managed to make some major changes in their life, I often hear the same thing. It goes like this: “Wow Dave, you look great! Have you lost weight?” “Yes, I’ve lost about 20 pounds.” “My goodness. How did you do it?” “I just decided that I didn’t want to be fat anymore.”

“I decided that…”

I decided that I didn’t want to miss my kids' athletic events… I decided that I hate being so out of shape… I decided that I was tired of driving around a car that was always in need of repair… I decided that I hate being poor… I decided that I needed to get closer to God… I decided that I wasn’t going to let others control my destiny…

The people who are successful tend to 

1. Make a decision.
2. Then figure it out. 
   

Why is that true? I’m not certain, but I think it’s because “I’m going to” is so much more powerful than “I want to” or “I hope to.” And it’s light years ahead of “Wouldn’t it be great if…”

If you are going to get in better shape, you’ll have to change how you eat or how you exercise (or both). If you are going to become wealthy, you have to make more money than you spend (and don’t buy stuff you cannot afford). If you are going to work on your character, you’ll have to tell the truth when it embarrasses you and keep your word, even when it hurts. 

But most people try to figure it out first, then they work on the plan (for a long time), and they end up embracing a few excuses along the way

That’s what I used to do. I had an excuse for everything. 

‍Most of my excuses where about 30% true and 70% conjecture. When challenged, I got defensive and you better believe I went right to the 30%! I was a loser when it comes to doing my part to gain a better life. 

So, I got forgiven, decided things would be different, and went through some painful trial and error. It got a little less painful each time. Now, when someone challenges me, it feels like they love me enough to say something. 

In 2020, when somebody asks you how you made a great change, simply say, “I just decided that _________________.” But to say that, you’re going to have to decide. 

Much love, 

Dr. Rob

aka The Robster