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SALT LAKE CITY — Years ago, I was fat, unfocused and unfulfilled. In a desperate moment (translate: no chocolate in the house), I wrote on a piece of paper, “What do I want?” Within a few minutes I’d written things like, “Lose weight and feel happy,” “Enjoy being with my children again,” and “Learn and speak about life principles that work.”
On the back of the paper, I wrote, “What’s stopping me?” Again, I listed several things in succession: too involved with my husband’s business, not enough sleep, and too afraid to achieve my dreams.
That one moment became a powerful catalyst for what I called the “Year of the Change.” I wrote a vision of my ideal life and chose a few achievable goals; namely, lose weight to stop looking like a bloated walrus. Using simple time-tested principles and a home gym, I lost 25 pounds and gained great energy.
Whichever you choose, know that one single choice followed by one focused action sets in motion a domino effect of fabulous, real change.
That change spilled over into other areas of my life. Having been a partner with my husband in our hardwood floor business, I stopped helping (nagging?) and let him do the honors. After researching solid life principles, I organized our home and better managed my time. I rediscovered my love for my children, joy in daily life, and eventually wrote a book called "Create a Powerful Life Plan" using my experience to help others successfully create their own life change.
All of these wonderful changes occurred because of one question, “What do I want?” and one action — in this case, to lose weight.
You and I have 12 fresh, yet-to-be-explored months ahead of us. What is one decision you can make this year that will change your life? Is it weight loss, financial stability or relationship repair? Whichever you choose, know that one single choice followed by one focused action sets in motion a domino effect of fabulous, real change.
Using this principle, I’ve helped women achieve a variety of goals and dreams as varied as strengthening a relationship with a struggling daughter, carving out free time to create heirloom quilts, and paying off credit cards while increasing income.
You can even use this one-change principle with a spouse or child. The other day I asked my husband what was one thing he’d like me to do for him this coming year (a loaded question to be sure, right after, “How do I look in this swimsuit?”) Wisely, he thought it over first. He could have chosen anything—perhaps a spotless home, freshly ironed clothes, or an uninterrupted football game more than once a year. In the end, he opted for my help with special meal preparation for his recent health issues. With this one choice, he felt more loved, I was relieved (anything but freshly ironed clothes) and ultimately, our lives will be blessed.
Be bold, be brave, and be willing to embrace change in your life. Choose one action that can get the ball rolling. If you need a boost, CLICK HERE for a free podcast of “Forget Resolutions! Set, Achieve, and Enjoy Goals that Work!”. Make this your year of change, and start living your ideal life today.
Connie Sokol is an author, presenter, TV contributor and mother of seven. Visitwww.conniesokol.comto see more of her work.
