How in the World Do You Get Started?

I'm talking about how you are going to get started with anything. That's right, anything! This is not about budgeting, working out, applying for a job, or anything specific. It comes down to the reason to get started. I hear it all the time, and I've had my struggles in some areas as well.

"I'm just not motivated." "I can't get myself to do it."

We say these things to ourselves probably at least 10 times a week. I've been blogging for 3 years. There have been times when I have been consistent weekly and times when I have fallen off. This year I am probably on my longest streak of weekly blogs, simply because every Monday (or before that) I tell myself, "Today, I'm going to make time to write a blog post."

4-5 times a week I make it a point to get up and work out (unless I specifically plan for a vacation). For the past 10+ years, I have consistently done that. Why? Because each night I make sure I have my clothes ready. When the alarm goes off, there is only one decision to make. Get up and work out. I honestly, do not even think about it. Now, many know that I work out with a friend of mine most days, who holds me accountable for that. But this morning, he wasn't there, it was just me. Even when someone is not there with me, I get up and work out.

Every day, I get up and read 1-3 chapters from the Bible and spend time in prayer. Why? Because I promised God 5+ years ago I was going to do this. When I miss a day (which is rare), the next day I start back over again. No penalty, no consequences, just forgiveness and moving on the next day.

One more...every day I spend about 5 minutes reviewing the money spent yesterday, money plans for today, and the budget for the day. Only 5 minutes! It is that simple and it helps to keep us on track and spending according to the monthly plan.

The problem is not motivation, the problem is nothing more than ourselves. These things are not hard, they are simple, but not easy. You just have to decide each day that you are going to win, now that part of you that wants the easy way out. Let's be honest, everyone wants the easy way out, but that just does not work.

I wrote this morning on Facebook. God has a will for our lives, which is down to each hour and each day. The only problem is we have a will for our lives too. Sadly, most times we win over God. My challenge to you today. Do something that is simple, not easy. Tell yourself to go, even when you don't want to.