I Do the Things I Don't Want to Do

We often times have the best intentions to do the things that we know we should be doing. Why do we keep putting off the things that are hard to do?

We have fear and doubts so we procrastinate. We try to be perfect and can't start anything new until it's just how we want it. We want to guarantee our success when there are no guarantees. And, sometimes we put off success because success can be scary. It means that what we need to do has to become our norm, and that's often different than what is expected of us by family and friends.

It's time to think differently about change. It's not something to fear or doubt... it's coming whether we like it or not. The only question is are you going to do change that is good for you or what's not?

We're actually told in Romans 8:37 "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us."

We have the choice. We ARE conquerors.

And, there's more!

2 Timothy 1:7 says, "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline."

In other versions of that verse it says that 'God does not give us a spirit of fear'. We hear God say a lot, "do not be afraid". He knows that fear is our natural state and can stop us in our tracks. But, it is not in our new God-given state.

And, self-discipline... that's a calling of a sound mind, moderation and self-control. We don't have to rely on our own devices anymore. We don't have to feel overwhelmed and out of control. It's freeing to know we are not bound by fear and lack of control because God's Spirit gives us His inherent power, love for all, and a discipline that is not our own.

And, that's all good. Now that we know God's plans for us, we next have to learn how to put this all into practice. How do we stop doing the things we don't want to do and instead do the things we do want to do?

First, we need to start believing God's promises. Not 'someday I'll be a conqueror', or 'maybe I'm a conqueror', but I AM A CONQUEROR... NOW, right now.

Or, 'maybe I can overcome these fears I have.' Nope, we have the power, love and self-discipline today. He's already given them to us. So, believe it!

Then, start with small, realistic steps toward one larger goal . Don't work on multiple goals at once, at least until you feel you have a good practice started for one before you start the next one.

For instance, if you start working on eating better and then want to work on starting an exercise routine at the same time, that's a lot of bandwidth. It's best to focus on whichever one is your priority, building confidence and feeling accomplished in that area, before you start tackling the next one.

And, what if you fail at one of them?

It's not a question of if, but when.

We all fail and have to expect that. But, it's just data. You're learning what doesn't work. It's nothing to get too worked up about. Instead, take note of why it didn't work, and either make some tweaks to find what will work, or try something else. It may not be rocket science... but it sure looks a lot like rocket science with the crashes and burns we get along this health journey of ours!

In my podcast, Why do I do the things I don't want to do?, I work through some real life examples of working through strategies. I suggest you listen... or watch... and bring a notepad and pen to do some brainstorming.

You do not need to do this on your own. I am taking Applications to work with me. Not only will you get the encouragement you need, and deserve, you will also rediscover your worth, your confidence and your spark.