Choose to Take the Journey

I like to think of myself as a mechanic working to convert my mind into an engine of success. Like a piston pumping back and forth in perfect rhythm, I want my mind to produce the results I want, when I want it, and with predictable consistency. I want this because I understand that my role models did not get that way by making success a one-off mark, but by making it an unshakable habit.

It’s not about lucky breaks or suddenly “getting” it. It’s about stopping when you’re full, over and over again. It’s about lacing up those running shoes, over and over again. It’s about putting your pen to the paper, sitting down to meditate, putting yourself on the line, over and over again.

Something will eventually break your rhythm; it’s inevitable. It might come in the form of demands from other people: your boss, your family, your friends, your girlfriend. It might be an unexpected tragedy, a stressful event, or even your most recent vacation. But when you slip up, don’t think it means that it’s over and that it’s time to let yourself go. Figure out where the hiccup in your engine occurred and make a plan to prevent it from happening again the following time.

Did you overeat for lunch? Perhaps your work stress gave you a craving for greasy foods. Next time, you may want to bring a healthy snack to munch on when you feel your blood sugar begin to drop. Did you miss your workout at the gym? Perhaps you were meeting friends for dinner and you didn’t have time to go home and change. Next time, you may want to bring your clothes with you to get in a quick run before you head out. Or better yet, invite your friends to work out with you. Did you fall behind on your project? Perhaps you were overwhelmed by the never-ending stream of demands from your loved ones. That doesn’t mean that you should cut them out of your life, but it does mean that you may want to block off certain times during the day and the week to spend time with them, and other times, for yourself.

The next time your car starts to act up on you, just pop the hood and give it a quick tune-up. You’ll definitely still get to where you’re going as long as you don’t turn off your engine and let everyone else do the driving.

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