David Willis Blog

Day 12 of the 7-40 Challenge: When Your Apple Watch Begs for Mercy

Hello, friends! Welcome to Day 12 of the 7-40 Challenge—where the garden-building saga continues, and my family and I are officially running on fumes.

Today was next-level. I did something I’m not sure I’ve ever done before: my Apple Watch clocked over 150 workout minutes. That’s right—150+ minutes of pure, real-life hustle. No gym, no long walks or yoga, just me, a mountain of wood, and sheer determination.

I hauled several thousand pounds of timber across the yard. By the end, my arms were noodles, my back was whispering sweet nothings of revenge, and my watch was basically screaming, “Are you trying to kill me?!”

But here’s the thing: it was worth it.

This wasn’t some scripted fitness app routine. This was a real-life workout—the kind that builds more than muscle. It builds grit. It builds progress. It builds a garden (and a story) we’ll look back on and say, “Yeah, we did that.”

The Short & Sweet Message for Tonight:

Keep working on the goals.

Do hard things. Do them well.

Even when you’re exhausted. Even when the wood feels heavier than your will to live.

Because the best workouts?

They don’t always happen in a gym.

Sometimes they happen in the dirt, under the sun, with family beside you and a dream in front of you.

Tomorrow, we rest.

But tonight?

We celebrate the burn.

See you on Day 13.

(If I can still move.)

David Willis Blog

Keep Getting Better: Day 8 of the 7-40 Challenge

Hello, friends. Welcome to Day 8 of Round 3 in the 7-40 Challenge. It’s a bright, sunshiny day—perfect for a lunchtime walk that’s lifting my mood and shifting my outlook on everything else in life.

I was just listening to See You at the Top by Zig Ziglar, and one line stopped me in my tracks. He said: “When we stop getting better, not long after, we will soon no longer be good at what we do.”

Let that sink in. When we stop getting better, we cease to be good.

I’ve been turning this over in my mind, applying it to a few corners of my own life to see if it holds water. Spoiler: it does.

In My Day Job

If I coast on what I know today—doing the job exactly as I do it now—I’ll earn a paycheck for a while. But technology doesn’t pause. Innovations will sprout up around me, and before long I’ll be out of step, unable to perform at the level I once did. The world changes; if I stay the same, I become obsolete.

As the industrialist Andrew Carnegie once observed, “The only irreplaceable capital an organization possesses is the knowledge and ability of its people. The more you develop that, the more valuable it becomes.” Resting on yesterday’s skills is a quiet way to watch your value erode.

In My Marriage

If I stop investing in my relationship—stop dating my wife, stop deepening the connection—our marriage risks becoming less than we dreamed. Frustrations creep in, fulfillment fades. Without continual improvement, what’s good today won’t stay good tomorrow.

As a Dad

I love my son fiercely. I want a strong relationship with him as he grows, and I want him to become a happy, healthy, well-adjusted man grounded in faith, hope, and a deep belief in God. That doesn’t happen on autopilot. I have to keep instructing, keep loving, keep teaching him how to navigate a world full of dangers, how to resist temptation, how to stand tall as a man in a culture that increasingly makes it hard.

If I stop improving as a father, what I have will cease to be good.

In My Health

That’s why I’m out here walking, why I’m carving out an hour to work out, why I’m pushing to return to optimal levels. I feel better, yes—but more importantly, I’m ensuring the day never comes when I’m no longer able to move, to play, to keep up.

The inventor Thomas Edison put it bluntly: “If we did all the things we are capable of, we would literally astound ourselves.” Improvement isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s the only sustainable path.

The Bottom Line

Improvement isn’t optional. It’s the price of staying good at anything that matters. It demands change, growth, and occasional discomfort. But the alternative—stagnation—is far costlier.

I want to be more and do more than I am today.

I want to be more for my family.

I want to be more in my career.

I want to be more for everyone I influence.

I want to keep getting better.

Wherever you are, whatever you’re doing—thank you for reading these words. I appreciate you. I’m grateful for you. And I hope you, too, are striving to become the best version of yourself.

See you tomorrow for Day 9.

David Willis Blog

Day 3 of the 7-40 Challenge: Gratitude That Shifts Your World and Choices That Build Your Future

Hey friends!

Welcome to Day 3 of the 7-40 Challenge. I’m posting this straight from my gym—sweat still drying, heart still pumping—right after crushing my workout for the day. What a good day it’s been. I’ve got a couple reflections burning in my chest that I have to share with you tonight. Let’s dive in.

The Game-Changer Called Gratitude

Over the last two rounds of this challenge (and now into round three), something wild has happened to my attitude. It’s shifted—big time—because I’ve zeroed in on gratitude.

“It’s one thing to say that you’re thankful for things. It is a very different thing to… tell those things to God. Thank him for what he’s done for you. To share with other people, the way that they have affected your life positively.” – David Willis

That’s me, word for word, because this isn’t fluffy talk—it’s real. Gratitude isn’t just a feel-good vibe; I’m mostly convinced that gratitude… is for my betterment, even as it betters the world.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 says it plain: Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

I’m so grateful for the life I’ve been given. The opportunities to make a difference. To wake up every day and do better. Who’s with me on that?

The Power of Choices: Lessons from Zig Ziglar

This afternoon, I fired up the audiobook of Zig Ziglar’s See You at the Top. Written 50 years ago, and it’s hitting harder than ever. Sure, some stories feel like flashbacks to my childhood, but they’re poignant. Relevant. Inspiring—maybe more now than the first time I devoured them.

Zig drops this bomb: “For over 20 years of my life, I chose to weigh well over 200 pounds.” The crowd’s like, “What do you mean, Zig? You chose that?”

He grins in that classic Southern drawl: “I have never been forced to eat anything in my life. Me weighing too much was a product of my choices.”

Mic drop.

Then he shares how, for 10 months after deciding to get healthy, he hated joggers. Saw them out there, buzzing with life, loving every stride… and it annoyed him. Until he became one.

Picture this: Running at Portland State University. Road blurring under his feet. Sun shining. Warm breeze. Boom—reality hits. “He wasn’t paying the price for health. He was enjoying the benefits.”

Fast-forward: At 61 years old (just 16 years after that choice), Zig’s resting heart rate? In the 40s. He could blaze five miles faster and easier than guys half his age.

Zig Ziglar said it best: “Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude.”

Discipline. Choices. Daily grind. That’s the ticket.

Why I’m All In on This Challenge

Zig’s been gone for several years, but his example? Still lighting a fire under me. I never met the man, but I’m chasing that same character. I, too, want to make choices that will lead me into a better future.

A future with a heart full of gratitude. A healthier, more vibrant me. Step by step, through this 7-40 Challenge, daily workouts, and every habit I’m stacking—I’m building it.

Healthy. Happy. Reasonably prosperous. And yeah—inspiring you to run your own race.

Who’s ready for Day 4? Let’s keep choosing better.

See you at the top.

P.S. Grab See You at the Top if you haven’t. Life-changer.

David Willis Blog

The 7-40 Challenge: Embracing Progress Over Perfection

“Success is not the absence of obstacles, but the courage to push through them.” – Joshua J. Marine

Four weeks ago, I embarked on a personal journey called the 7-40 Challenge—seven daily habits over 40 days to transform my routine and mindset. Today, on day 28, I’m reflecting on the progress I’ve made, the lessons I’ve learned, and the beauty of embracing imperfection in pursuit of growth. This isn’t just about checking boxes; it’s about finding balance, staying productive, and learning to roll with life’s ebb and flow.

The Seven Habits of the 7-40 Challenge

For those just tuning in, here’s a quick rundown of the seven daily habits I committed to:

1. Bible study and prayer to grow closer to God and center my day.

2. Counting daily calories to stay mindful of my nutrition.

3. Drinking 100 ounces of water to keep hydrated.

4. Working out for an hour to stay active.

5. Practicing gratitude to cultivate a positive mindset.

6. Reading for 30 minutes (audiobook or paperback) to feed my mind.

7. Writing or working on business goals to move my projects forward.

These habits are my roadmap to becoming a better version of myself. But as I’ve learned over these four weeks, progress isn’t always linear, and perfection isn’t the goal—productivity is.

A Day in the Life: When Life Becomes the Workout

Today was one of those days that reminded me flexibility is key. I accomplished nearly all my habits, but the “workout” box didn’t get checked in the traditional sense. No gym session, no structured exercise routine. Instead, life itself became my workout.

After breakfast and church, I tackled mowing my sprawling yard. Riding the lawnmower? Easy. But the weed-eating? That’s where the real work kicked in. An hour and 45 minutes under the blazing sun left me sweaty, grimy, and physically spent. Then, I dove into a woodworking project, hauling a 6-foot butcher block countertops, measuring, cutting, and carrying materials back and forth. Add in a Costco run, helping with dinner, and knocking out a hefty to-do list, and my body was screaming, “You’ve done enough!”

Did I have a “workout”? Not in the conventional sense. Did I work out? Absolutely. My body was tired, my tasks were completed, and I felt accomplished. As Theodore Roosevelt once said, “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” Today, I lived that truth.

The Lesson: Balance Over Burnout

The 7-40 Challenge isn’t about being perfect every day—it’s about staying committed while giving yourself grace. Some days, life’s demands take precedence, and that’s okay. The key is finding a sustainable balance that allows you to pursue your goals without burning out. As Aristotle wisely noted, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”

I’m learning that there’s an ebb and flow to challenges like this. Some days, you nail every habit. Others, you adapt, prioritizing what needs to be done while still moving forward. For me, that meant recognizing that mowing, carpentry, and running errands were just as valid as a gym session. It’s about progress, not perfection.

Why This Matters

If you’re reading this, you might already be a pro at balancing life’s demands with personal growth. Or maybe, like me, you’re still figuring it out. Either way, I’m sharing this journey because I believe in the power of small, consistent steps. The 7-40 Challenge is teaching me to celebrate the wins—big and small—and to keep going even when things don’t go as planned.

What’s Next?

With 12 days left in the challenge, I’m more motivated than ever to keep pushing forward. I’m learning to adapt, to listen to my body, and to prioritize what matters most. Tomorrow is day 29, and I’m excited to see what it brings.

Does this resonate with you? Have you ever had to pivot your goals to fit life’s demands? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts, tips, or experiences. Let’s keep the conversation going and inspire each other to keep moving forward, one productive day at a time.

Here’s to progress, balance, and the courage to keep going. See you tomorrow for day 29!

David Willis Blog

Day 20 of the 7-40 Challenge: Rediscovering Focus and Embracing Authenticity

Hey there, friends! Welcome to Day 20 of my 7-40 Challenge—a 40-day journey where I’m committing to seven daily habits to sharpen my skills, clarify my priorities, and make real progress on what matters most. We’re at the halfway mark, and I’m going to be real with you: I’m feeling a bit discouraged. But this isn’t a story of defeat—it’s a raw, honest reflection on staying true to my goals and reigniting the fire to keep going. Let’s dive in.

The Struggle Is Real

Life is busy. There’s no sugarcoating it. Between work, family, and the endless stream of notifications, it’s so easy to get sidetracked. I set out on this challenge to focus on what’s important, but 20 days in, I’m realizing how tempting it is to let distractions take the wheel. Some days, I get to the end of the day and see a to-do list that’s still glaring at me, unfinished. It stings. I’ve made progress, don’t get me wrong—but I know I can do better. I want to do better.

The truth is, anything worth doing is worth doing well. I’ve heard that saying my whole life, and it’s hitting home hard right now. So, as I stand at this halfway point, I’m taking a moment to reflect on my seven habits, recommit to my purpose, and sharpen my focus for the next 20 days. Let’s walk through each goal together—not just to hold myself accountable, but to remind myself (and maybe you) why these things matter.

My Seven Habits: Why They’re Worth It

Here’s a breakdown of the seven daily habits I’m working on, why they matter to me, and where I need to step up my game.

1. Bible Study and Prayer
Every morning, I start my day in God’s Word. This habit is my anchor—it sharpens my mind, aligns my heart, and sets me up to be a light to others. I want to live out His will and make a positive impact. This one’s been non-negotiable, and I’m proud to say I’ve stuck with it. It’s not just a task; it’s a lifeline that keeps me grounded.

2. 60 Minutes of Exercise
Here’s where I need to get real. My goal is 60 minutes of intentional exercise daily, but my Apple Watch sometimes gives me credit for “exercise minutes” when I’m just walking or moving around. That’s not what I signed up for. I want focused, purposeful workouts to get stronger and healthier. For the second half of this challenge, I’m recommitting to making exercise a priority, not an afterthought.

3. Drinking 100 Ounces of Water
Okay, why is this so hard? I love my coffee and tea, but hitting 100 ounces of water every day feels like climbing a mountain. I’m struggling to stay consistent, so I’m setting a new mini-goal: 64 ounces by lunch. It’s time to stop making excuses and hydrate like I mean it.

4. Logging My Calories
This one’s been a win. I’ve tracked my calories every day, and it’s giving me a clearer picture of my eating habits. Some days, I’m on point; others, when I’m tired or craving comfort food, my calories creep up. My bigger goal is to get fit and feel good in my body, so I’m going to keep fine-tuning this habit to stay on track.

5. Practicing Gratitude
Gratitude isn’t just saying “thank you”—it’s a call to action. It’s about being so thankful for the blessings in my life—my family, my work, my home, my friends—that I’m moved to do good and love others well. I wrote about this on my blog recently, and it’s a reminder that gratitude should fuel excellence in everything I do. I want to lean into this even more, showing my thankfulness through my actions.

6. Reading or Listening to Audiobooks for 30 Minutes
This habit has been a joy. Whether I’m walking or chilling, I’ve been diving into audiobooks for at least 30 minutes a day. I finished Creative Calling by Chase Jarvis and started Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller (the 2.0 version). These books are sharpening my mind and sparking new ideas. I’m excited to keep this going and see where it takes me.

7. Writing or Creating for My Personal Business
Every day, I’m writing on my blog, recapping my 7-40 Challenge journey. This isn’t just about checking a box—it’s about sharing my story to encourage and motivate others. But I want to get clearer on my message. These habits aren’t random; they’re about becoming a better version of myself so I can inspire others to do the same.

Refocusing for the Finish Line

As I look at these goals, I’m reminded that they’re not just tasks—they’re investments in who I want to be. Distraction only creeps in when I lose sight of that. By walking through each habit, I’m reigniting my motivation and sharpening my focus for the next 20 days. I’m not here to cram these habits into the margins of my day; I’m here to make them the heartbeat of my routine.

So, what’s the takeaway? Authenticity and focus go hand in hand. Being honest about my struggles—whether it’s getting distracted or struggling with water intake—helps me realign with my purpose. This challenge isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. It’s about showing up, even when it’s hard, and choosing to do the work that matters.

Your Turn: What’s Your Focus?

I’m heading into the second half of this challenge with renewed energy, ready to tackle these habits with intention and excellence. But I want to hear from you. What are you working on? Is your focus razor-sharp, or are you wrestling with distractions like me? Drop a comment below and share your journey—I’d love to hear how you’re staying motivated and what’s keeping you going.

Here’s to Day 21 and beyond. Let’s do some good work!