Tag: Fitness

Unpacking My Library: A Journey Through Books and Growth

~ David Willis ~ Leave a comment

Hello, friends, and welcome to today’s reflection—a little piece of my Saturday soul, shared with you as part of the 7-40 Challenge. I hope your day has been as rich and fulfilling as mine. Here in our new home, the day was brimming with family time, good food, a cozy movie, and, yes, the ongoing adventure of taming the chaos that is my office.

You see, we moved a few months ago, and my office is still a bit of a glorious mess. Picture this: stacks of books, decorations, cords for long-forgotten electronics, vinyl records, and—did I mention?—more books. Over the years, I’ve amassed a collection that could rival a small library. But here’s the kicker: I’ve never had a solid strategy for organizing it all. For too long, boxes of books have been relegated to the garage or tucked away in the attic, out of sight but never out of mind. Moving to this new house forced me to confront them—either find a place for them in my office or, heartbreakingly, let some go.

Now, if you’ve followed my posts before, you know I have a thing for books. I’m utterly captivated by the knowledge they hold, the worlds they open, the possibilities they whisper. But here’s the honest truth: I’m not always great at sitting down with a paper book and getting lost in its pages. So why do I keep all these books? It’s a question I’ve wrestled with, and the answer lies in what they represent.

Books, to me, are markers of my journey. They’re like breadcrumbs leading back to who I was and signposts pointing to who I want to become. As the great philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “I cannot remember the books I’ve read any more than the meals I have eaten; even so, they have made me.” Each book in my collection tells a story of a moment when I decided I didn’t want to stay stuck—mentally, spiritually, or emotionally. I wanted to grow, to be more, to do more.

Take, for instance, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey, The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale, or Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. These books aren’t just pages bound together; they’re companions that have nudged me toward action, encouraged me to dream bigger, and reminded me to keep pushing forward. They’ve been my coaches on days when I needed a spark of motivation.

Then there’s the spiritual side of my library. Authors like John Eldredge, Craig Groeschel, and Erwin McManus have been my guides in deepening my faith in God and my walk with Jesus. As Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote in 1937, “When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.” These words remind me that following Jesus is a call to surrender and grow, to let go of my old self and step into the purpose God has for me. These books challenge me to reflect God’s love, to speak truth with compassion, and to live with intention. They push me to be a better example to the world and to align my steps with Jesus

But beyond the practical and the spiritual, there’s another reason I cherish my library. These books represent potential—who I could be, who I’m striving to become. If I can internalize the wisdom within these pages, I can be a more devoted follower of Jesus, a better husband, a better father, a stronger speaker, and a more impactful presence in every area of my life. These books aren’t just objects; they’re trusted voices, offering nuggets of truth that I can turn over in my hands and heart, testing and applying them to grow beyond where I am today.

I don’t take every word in every book at face value. I wrestle with the ideas, weigh them, and keep what resonates as true and good. And that’s the beauty of it—my library is a living, breathing testament to my pursuit of growth, a collection of possibilities that inspire me to keep going.

So, here I am, surrounded by my books, grateful for the journey they represent and the one they’re guiding me toward. I’m thankful for you, too, for reading this far and joining me in this reflection. I’d love to hear from you—what books are in your library? What lessons are you learning, and how are they shaping who you’re becoming? Drop a comment, keep the conversation going, and let’s inspire each other.

Here’s to day seven of the 7-40 Challenge—may we keep growing, learning, and chasing the best versions of ourselves.

The Power of Play: A Day at the State Fair and a Lesson in Living Freely

~ David Willis ~ Leave a comment

Hey there, friends! Welcome to day five of round two of the 7-40 Challenge. Buckle up, because today was an absolute riot of fun. My family and I hit the state fair, and let me tell you, it was a glorious whirlwind of sights, sounds, and pure joy. From the gleaming cars in the automobile pavilion to the endless sea of hot tubs (who knew there was such a demand?), to the irresistible fair food and the electrifying chaos of the Midway—complete with a wild round of bumper cars—it was a day bursting with laughter and memories. I had a blast, and it tied perfectly into today’s reflection from Chase Jarvis’ book, Never Play It Safe. Specifically, his fifth level: Play.

This chapter hit me right in the heart. Jarvis nails something we often overlook: as we grow up, we forget how to play. We get buried under deadlines, responsibilities, and the pressure to perform, and we lose that carefree spark of creativity that comes so naturally to kids. The world might call play silly or a waste of time, but Jarvis argues it’s woven into our very being. It’s not just fun—it’s essential. As the philosopher Plato said in the 4th century BC, “We are twice armed if we fight with faith and play.” Play isn’t a distraction; it’s a cornerstone of a vibrant, balanced life.

Jarvis shares a story that really stuck with me. He describes a guy (whose name escapes me) who was crushing it at an internship, pouring his heart and soul into proving himself. He nailed every detail, worked himself to exhaustion, and eventually landed a full-time job at the company. Sounds like a success story, right? Not so fast. The relentless grind turned him into a workaholic. His personal life faded away, his sleep was a disaster, his eating habits were worse, and he was on the brink of a nervous breakdown. Diagnosed with anxiety, he quit his job, started medication, and hit a low point. That’s when a friend recommended a book about the power of play.

Desperate for a change, this guy took on a 30-day challenge to bring play back into his life. He went for walks, played sports, grabbed a baseball bat and a bag of balls, and spent time at the park with a friend, just hitting balls and letting loose. Day after day, he made time for play. And after 30 days? The results were staggering. His anxiety had vanished. He was off the medication. He was, in his own words, “just OK.” Jarvis drives home the point: play is as restorative as sleep. It frees our minds, reignites our creativity, and recharges us in ways that endless hustling never can. As the poet Robert Louis Stevenson wrote in 1885, “In play, we find the freedom to be our true selves, unburdened by the weight of the world.” When we play, we give our brains room to breathe, to dream, to create.

So, how does this connect to my day at the state fair? It’s like the fair was a living example of Jarvis’ point. My family and I dove headfirst into the experience—stuffing our faces with gloriously weird fair food (deep-fried cheesecake, anyone?), cackling like kids in the bumper cars, and maybe buying a few things we definitely didn’t need. We walked over five miles (my feet are still complaining), but every step was worth it. It was a day of pure, unscripted joy. We played. We laughed. We soaked in each other’s company. And you know what? My soul feels light. I’m tired, sure, but I’m recharged. My brain’s ready to tackle whatever’s next, all because I gave it a chance to just be.

So, wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, I’m challenging you to carve out a little time for play. Take a deep breath, go for a walk, toss a Frisbee, or blast your favorite song and dance like nobody’s watching. It’s not frivolous—it’s vital. Play might just be the secret to keeping your soul light and your mind free. Here’s to day six, friends—let’s keep the good vibes rolling!

What’s your favorite way to play and recharge? Drop a comment and let me know!

Finding Balance and Gratitude on Day Four of the 7-40 Challenge

~ David Willis ~ Leave a comment

Welcome, friends, to day four of round two of the 7-40 Challenge! As I sit down to write this, I’ll be honest—I’m feeling pretty tired. For the past 45 days or so, I’ve been pouring my energy into this challenge with only a few days off here and there. It’s been an incredible journey, but today, I’m embracing a moment of pause to reflect, recharge, and share my gratitude.

This challenge has pushed me in ways I didn’t expect, and while I’m still working through my goals, I’m encouraged by the progress I’ve made. The road to growth is rarely a straight line, and as the great philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising up every time we fail.” His words remind me that every step forward, no matter how small, is a victory worth celebrating.

Today, though, I’m giving myself permission to take a little break from my evening exercise routine. I’ve been burning the candle at both ends, and I know that rest is just as important as effort. Catching up on sleep and spending quality time with my family feels like the right way to honor this moment. After all, balance is key to sustaining the journey.

In the spirit of keeping things short and sweet, I want to share my gratitude. I’m so thankful for the blessings in my life—my family, my health, and all the good things that fill my days. God has been so good to me, and I’m deeply grateful for His care and love. This challenge isn’t just about hitting milestones; it’s about appreciating the journey and the people who make it meaningful.

So, here’s to taking a moment to breathe, to reflect, and to give thanks. I hope you’re doing well, wherever you are on your own journey. No long words or big posts today—just a heartfelt thank you for being here. I’ll see you tomorrow for day five, ready to keep pushing forward.

Day Two of Round Two: Embracing the 7-40 Challenge with Heart and Purpose

~ David Willis ~ Leave a comment

Good evening, friends! Welcome to Day Two of Round Two of my 7-40 Challenge journey. I’ve been turning this challenge over in my mind, examining it from every angle like a kid inspecting a shiny new toy. I’m digging into the benefits, sizing up the potential pitfalls, and finding my footing as I go. As Benjamin Franklin once said, “Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing.” I’m aiming to do a bit of both here, and I’m thrilled you’re joining me on this ride.

Let’s kick things off with the good stuff—the benefits of diving headfirst into the 7-40 Challenge. There’s something downright energizing about having a clear goal laid out in front of you. It’s like a lighthouse guiding you through a stormy sea, giving you focus and a reason to get up each morning with purpose. For me, tackling these seven daily habits over 40 days is like pouring high-octane fuel into my life. It’s helping me get fitter, sharpen my mind, and connect with others who are chasing similar dreams. As Ralph Waldo Emerson put it, “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” These habits are my way of living well—not just for me, but for the folks I hope to inspire along the way.

Now, I get that this challenge isn’t everyone’s jam, and that’s perfectly fine. But if you’re reading this, I’m genuinely honored. Even if you’re the only one who sees these words, you’re enough. This journey isn’t just about me grinding through my goals; it’s about building a community of dream-chasers and doers. I’d love to hear what you’re working on—your goals, your hurdles, your victories. Drop me a comment or a message, because as much as I hope to spark something in you, I’m counting on you to light a fire under me too.

That said, let’s keep it real—there’s a potential downside to all this focus. If I get too laser-focused on my own progress, I might miss the bigger picture. I could end up staring in a mirror, patting myself on the back for what I’ve accomplished, and that’s not what this is about. As C.S. Lewis wisely said, “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less.” The 7-40 Challenge isn’t about me crowing about my wins; it’s about doing the right things so I can lift others up, share my story, and encourage folks to chase their own dreams. If I make it all about me, I risk turning this into a prideful solo act, and that’s the last thing I want.

At my core, I’ve always known I’m here to help people. Whether it’s through a kind word, a shared experience, or a nudge to keep going, I want to be someone who uplifts and inspires. When I lose sight of that purpose, I feel like a puzzle piece that doesn’t quite fit. This challenge is my way of staying grounded, of making sure my actions line up with my mission to be good to others. As Maya Angelou beautifully said, “Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.” That’s the heart of the 7-40 Challenge for me—using my journey to shine a light for others.

So, yeah, there are upsides and potential pitfalls to this challenge, but all in all, it’s worth every ounce of effort. These goals are worth chasing, and I’m stoked to be on this path with you—wherever you are, whoever you are. I’m grateful for you, even if we’ve never met. Before I wrap this up, I want to hear from you. What’s something you’re working on? What’s got you fired up right now? Your story might just be the inspiration someone else needs.

Here’s to Day Three of the 7-40 Challenge! Keep pushing, keep shining, and I’ll see you tomorrow.

Round 2 of the 7-40 Challenge: Day 1 – Embracing the Journey of Change

~ David Willis ~ Leave a comment

Hey there, friends! Welcome to Round 2 of the 7-40 Challenge. I’m David, your host for this 40-day adventure of growth and transformation. Today is Day 1, and I’m pumped to kick things off with renewed focus and a few tweaks to make this round even more meaningful. Let’s dive in and talk about what’s ahead.

The number 40 carries deep significance. In the Bible, it often marks a season of trials leading to breakthroughs—like Noah’s 40 days of rain, ushering in a new world, or Jesus’ 40 days in the desert. As C.S. Lewis once said, “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” Inspired by this, my 7-40 Challenge is about seven daily practices over 40 days to spark real change in body, mind, and spirit.

Here’s the lineup:

1. Bible Study and Prayer – The heart of it all. Each morning, I ground myself in scripture and prayer, finding clarity and strength for the day.

2. One Hour of Exercise – A daily commitment to move—whether it’s walking, lifting weights, or a mix of both—to build a healthier me.

3. Tracking Water and Calories – Staying mindful of hydration and nutrition keeps my energy steady and my goals in sight.

4. 30 Minutes of Reading – Whether it’s a physical book or an audiobook, this is my time to learn and grow. As Ralph Waldo Emerson put it, “The mind, once stretched by a new idea, never returns to its original dimensions.”

5. Daily Writing – Reflecting on the day’s progress, challenges, and insights helps me stay focused and process what I’m learning.

6. Gratitude Practice – Taking time to genuinely appreciate the blessings in my life, letting that gratitude inspire action and positivity.

7. One Business Activity – This is the new piece! Each day, I’ll focus on one step toward my entrepreneurial goals—whether it’s brainstorming ideas or building something to support my family. It’s about turning creativity into opportunity.

I’m excited to see where these 40 days lead. Compared to Round 1, I’m stepping it up a bit—pushing harder in workouts, lifting heavier, and keeping my daily walks while adding more strength training. My aim? To become a fitter, wiser, more grateful version of myself, while documenting the journey and laying the groundwork for new ventures.

But this isn’t just about me—it’s about us. What goal are you chasing? What could 40 days of focused effort do for you, personally or professionally? As Aristotle said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Share your dreams or challenges in the comments—I’d love for you to join me on this path. Let’s make these 40 days count. Who’s ready to make it happen?

Let’s do this!