Today I give myself an end-of-the-day evaluation. Did I start my day with plans to accomplish a set number of things? Were my expectations realistic? Did I finish everything I set out to accomplish? Was I interrupted or did I become distracted? If yes, was I able to recover and refocus in a timely manner? Do I feel a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment about my journey today? Did I do anything in line with my life’s goals and purpose today?
Good plans, good dreams, and good wishes do not get things done. If fact, all three can get buried under menial tasks and unnecessary diversions. It has been said that the road to a certain unwanted destination is “paved with good intentions.” Well, getting back to my self-evaluation, I could paint a picture of excuses and reasons, but in this case, paint would only be covering the truth. Without being unduly hard on myself, today’s evaluation was low enough for me to re-evaluate my priorities, my focus, and how to best use my time.
Tonight, I will make a short list of things to do with at least one item towards my long-term goals. I will discipline myself to get up, pray, meditate, exercise, and focus on my short list. Being disciplined for success involves honest self-assessments with a commitment to yourself to readjust plans, methods, and directions whenever needed. It has been said that “A wise man will change, but a fool will never change.” Well, change is not always easy, but I think I have been a fool long enough. It is time for a change!