On the Right Track

I’m on a mission!  I don’t just want to lose weight.  I want to be healthy.  And BEing healthy is a result of DOing healthy things.  Unfortunately, I have a number of unhealthy eating habits.  One such habit has been my tendency to eat big meals late at night.

Two weeks ago, I started the “After 7 Club“–a group of individuals committed to passing up those late night binges.  And honestly, I’ve been thrilled with the strength and discipline I’ve been able to demonstrate.  (I really believe a lot of it is a result of the accountability that comes from making a public commitment to something and having others join in on the effort.)

Well, something special happened on Saturday night.  I took my wife out on a dinner date to a Hibachi restaurant so there was another couple at our table.  Long story short…the gentleman seated near us, out of the nowhere, shared with us his testimony about how he lost 70 pounds.  His wife then began to tell us about how his snoring and sleep apnea impacted her sleeping, and consequently, their relationship.

He knew nothing about me, nor my efforts, before sharing that information.

I’m just amazed at the way God knows exactly when to send people and messages to let you know that you’re on the right track.

And here’s what I’m learning…those special “messengers” show up AFTER you’ve made a decision, and begun moving forward.

The Scoreboard

This past weekend, I had the privilege of leading a workshop for college students at Slippery Rock University.  The title of the workshop was “Leadership Lessons from the Gridiron”, and the discussion highlighted some of the winning principles I’ve learned during my athletic career.

One key principle involves the idea of the scoreboard.  During a game, the scoreboard provides the players with a snapshot, letting them know–at any given point in time–who is winning AND how much time is left in the contest.  Not only do the players know the score, but so do the coaches, the fans, the cheerleaders, the announcers, and the television audience!

Check this out…by publicizing the score, you create a high level of accountability.  Because that information is “out there“, everybody knows where you stand.

Though this idea may be frightening, I personally believe that the pressure of accountability is an incredible motivator.  I have to say that some of the victories I’ve achieved were clearly the result of the pressure that came from having my business in the street.

Where are you in the process of achieving your goals?  Writing your book?  Finishing your degree? Losing that weight?  What is the score, and how much time is left?

Have you ever thought about publicizing some of your goals?  Or possibly posting your goals to a public blog?

I suggest you put yourself out there!  The pressure may just be the push you need to propel you to achieving your goals.