Will You Write Yourself a Check?

My son Nick is a personal trainer and has helped me immensely in my journey to lose weight and get healthy. Recently, I reconnected with him to help me with some new health goals for 2013. Frankly, I had been slacking off during the holidays and needed to get back on track. When we reached the halfway mark in my workout, I knew I was in trouble. I was struggling severely and was upset for allowing myself to fall behind. Being the good coach he is, Nick smiled at me with encouragement and said, "Just wrote yourself a check didn't you?" I looked at him a bit confused. He explained, "A reality check". As we begin 2013, I am bombarded with all kinds of advice and motivational tips to help me succeed in the New Year. I want to join the fray and offer you one piece of advice. Write yourself a reality check. When you look back at the last twelve months and measure your progress, are you where you expected to be? If not, ask yourself why.  Be honest with yourself and examine areas you could improve. I have my iMac home screen set to The Seven Decisions from Andy Andrew's best selling book, The Traveler's Gift. It is a constant reminder of the principles that determine personal success. Decision Number one is "The Buck Stops Here" and here is a quote from Harry S. Truman: If decisions are choices…and our thinking dictates our decisions- then we are where we are because of our thinking. Avoid blaming anything or anyone for where you are. I had to take responsibility for my exercise shortfalls. Take responsibility for your attitude, your success and your life in 2013. Go and make it happen. Happy New Year! Pierce