Approximately a year ago, I made decisions to change my life.  I decided to exercise.  I decided to meditate.  I decided to write in a gratitude journal.

My son was approximately 6-months old and I had to carry him around often.  At times, it was a struggle to carry him around in his carseat or for long stretches as we walked around.  I was embarrassed.  I needed to be stronger.  My favorite podcast, Jocko Podcast, was a huge influence on me, along with the book Jocko Willink wrote with his brother Leif Babin, Extreme Ownership.  The podcast and book have awakened me to a better life of discipline and ownership.

Decision to Exercise

Kettlebell

I decided I had to start exercising.  I started off slow by doing 10 push-ups, 10 pull-ups, and 10 sit-ups each day.  Honestly, it was a struggle at first.  I had not done basic exercises in a long time.  It took several sets just to get to 10.  Over time it got easier and I started doing more.  I would incrementally increase the number of reps so that I was always struggling to finish my goal.  I started adding new exercises and purchased an Ab Roller Wheel.  Recently, I purchased a Kettlebell to add even more exercises to my daily routine.  As of today, my workout routine consists of 60 push-ups, 60 pull-ups, 60 sit-ups, 40 ab-rolls, 30 kettlebell swings, and some additional daily exercises.  I have lost over 20 pounds and can now carry my son and daughter with ease.

In addition to exercising, I have also changed my diet.  I no longer drink soda and have greatly reduced the amount of sugar and sweets that I eat.  No more sugar coated lies for me!  I am drinking a lot more water and try to drink a cup of hot tea each night.  I am eating salads regularly and am limiting the amount of carbs, even though that can be difficult at times.

Decision to Meditate

Another decision I made was to start meditating.  I was extremely skeptical at first but kept hearing about meditation while listening to episodes of The Tim Ferriss Show, another podcast that I really enjoy.  I took Tim’s advice and downloaded the Headspace app to try the 10-day trial.  I liked the Headspace app and used it pretty consistently throughout the year.  I would normally use it during my lunch break at work.  I have recently switched to use Kevin Rose’s app, Oak.  I enjoy this meditation app more because the different sounds and tones help me focus, and I now prefer the unguided session.  I really look forward to meditating and wish I started this practice years ago.

Decision to Write in a Gratitude Journal

5-Minute Journal

My decision to write in a gratitude journal was also heavily influenced by Tony Robbins, The Tim Ferriss Show, along with several references in audiobooks that I have listened to.  To get started, I purchased the Five-Minute Journal, where I write in the morning and again in the evening.  Over time, I’ve noticed that I’m more optimistic and tend to be more positive.  My wife has also noticed this change in my behavior.  I look forward to writing each morning and evening, and recommend this daily habit to everyone.

For me, these were life changing decisions.  These changes were very necessary in improving my life, and the lives of my wife and children.  They truly have changed my life for the better.  I am stronger, calmer, less stressed, and more focused than I ever have been.  I am a better husband, father, friend, and employee.  What changes can you make?  What will you decide?