As I was “power walking” and dictating my thoughts and to-do lists into a small voice recorder, I considered my goal for exercising. Ingrid and I often walk fast enough to get the benefits of increased heart rate, but slow enough to talk without gasping for air. My goal is different when I’m by myself. I usually walk faster and have recently decided to jog the second part of the three and half mile journey. The reason is simple. I’m increasing the effects of burning calories by jogging. As I’m fast approaching my 40 th year, I’ve decide to concentrate more energy on slimming down by drinking less alcohol, eating better foods, and exercising more often. I have changed my goals and thus also exercised my power of choice. The choice I have to live my life as I want.
While jogging up the hills, I was tempted to walk several times. I thought about blogging this story and I pressed on, with a target in mind to keep running. It worked. By developing a goal, I met the challenge. I felt empowered, and that empowerment extended its reach out into all areas of my day.
We have within us a great power. That power is choice. We can choose what we want to focus on and how we want our lives to be. We can change our minds at any time, and revise our journey with new goals. You and you alone ultimately decide the direction of your life. Enjoy the journey.
Joe thanks for the inspiration. I think too many people forget they have the choice to live their life the way they want. I enjoyed watching the video from the Rimrock Workshop, it looked like an amazing few days.
Posted by: Andrew Schaefer | November 11, 2007 at 08:02 AM
That's a wonderful post and an empowering point of view.
Thanks!
Posted by: Sean Cayton | November 11, 2007 at 07:09 PM
Hey Andrew. Choice is the most precious freedom I have. Once we embrace it as the power each of us possess, life will change for the better. I can exercise my preferences hundreds of times each day. Thanks for writing, and Rimrock was just as fun as the video showed. Perhaps you'd be interested in joining us in April for the next one. We're just getting started:) Joe
Posted by: Joe Photo | November 11, 2007 at 11:26 PM
Hi Sean! Stephen Covey really expresses this point far better than I, in his book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. He is one of my favorite thinkers. Thanks for your comment.
Posted by: Joe Photo | November 11, 2007 at 11:30 PM
Hi Joe! What a fantastic and timely post, thank you! Your energy is truly amazing.
Jen
Posted by: Jen Dery | November 14, 2007 at 06:10 PM
I can't believe YOU read my blog:) You made my day! Much love to you Jen! -Joe
Posted by: Joe Photo | November 14, 2007 at 08:22 PM