The point of this blog is to explore how to make 44 better than any other year.  Better than 43, 42 , 35, 21(well maybe not 21), etc.  So far, not so much success.  Everyday is a blessing and everyday offers a chance to grow but I’m thinking more “stepping to the edge” than “business as usual.”  My running has been terrible – a struggle every day.  My job is a job.  I feel constantly consumed by what my kids are doing.  These are the things I want to improve.  I REALLY need to get back in shape and I know that is a big part of my mental health.  I need to be better at my job and I know that will make it less of a grind.  I know I have to make more time for myself.

Do I need more motivation or do I just need a plan?  Probably a little of both.

The motivation:

1.  My ultimate bucket list item is to hike the Appalachian Trail.  That has always been my reason for staying in shape.  I know that I won’t have the time until I retire so I’ve always had a goal of staying in shape until that opportunity arises.

2. I coached wrestling with a guy who used to say “Don’t Leave Anything on the Mat.”  That’s how I want to live.  As Thoreau said, I want to suck the very marrow out of life and know that when I come to die that I have lived.

3. Grandchildren – I want to know them and I want to have crazy stories to share with them.  I want to be able to help mold them.  And most of all I want to be a great role model for them.

4.  Lincoln said, “Whatever you are; be a good one.” That’s important to me.  I want my legacy to be that I was good at what I did as a principal, a father, a husband, a son.

The plan:

1.  Get your mind right! – Be more positive, avoid energy sappers

2.  Focus! – Read your goals daily

3.  Remember your motivation! – Read those too

4.  Work to be better everyday! – And hold yourself accountable.  Each day write down what you did to improve yourself today.

5. Seek support