Tag: self-care

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.

Day 3 of the 7-40 Challenge: Round 2 – Pressing On Through Turmoil

~ David Willis ~ Leave a comment

Welcome to day three of round two of the 7-40 Challenge. Today has been exhausting—a true test of endurance. Yet, despite the fatigue, I’m staying focused on my goals, holding myself accountable to the path I’ve set.

My heart is heavy today, burdened by the turmoil unfolding in the national news. I won’t dive into specifics here, but if you’ve seen the headlines, you can likely sense the source of my sadness. My thoughts and prayers are with the family and their tragic loss.

A thought on goals

Working toward these goals isn’t always a joyride—I’ll be honest about that. Some tasks are deeply rewarding, while others feel like a slog. Still, they’re worth the effort. One goal I carried from round one into this round is reading for at least 30 minutes daily. So far, I’ve finished three books: two I’d read before and one that was new to me. I’m now on my fourth, Never Play It Safe by Chase Jarvis. I’m familiar with Jarvis’s work, but I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book when I started listening to it (audiobooks help me fit reading into my busy days).

I’m drawn to motivational content—books that inspire me to grow, act, and push beyond my current limits, whether for this challenge or life in general. In Never Play It Safe, Jarvis outlines seven tenets for living with purpose: taking risks, avoiding the trap of playing it safe, and achieving what you’ve set out to do. So far, though I am only through three of the chapters, it’s been a compelling read, though I’ve found myself wrestling with some of his ideas.

This brings me to tonight’s reflection: we don’t have to agree with everything an author says to find value in their work. It’s possible to glean powerful insights—nuggets of truth that resonate—while setting aside what doesn’t align with our perspective or values. I’m experiencing this with Jarvis’s book right now.

In his first chapter, “Attention,” I’m fully on board. Jarvis emphasizes the importance of giving laser-focused attention to the tasks at hand. Setting aside distractions to pursue your goals with intensity is critical, and I’m applying this principle daily.

The second chapter, “Time,” was thought-provoking but trickier for me to grasp. Jarvis suggests that time isn’t just a fleeting resource; it can be manipulated or even expanded. As someone who views time as finite, I initially struggled with this concept. But I believe he’s driving at how focused attention (from the first chapter) alters our perception of time, making it feel like it stretches or contracts based on our immersion. My takeaway? Deep focus helps us maximize the time we have, turning hours into productive breakthroughs.

It’s the third chapter, “Intuition,” where I’m hitting some cognitive dissonance. Jarvis argues that sometimes, despite advice from others pushing us toward a certain path, we know deep down it’s not right. He suggests intuition can guide us in these moments. I’d counter that unless you have significant experience in a given area, what feels like intuition might just be confusion or bias. In such cases, seeking wise counsel is essential. As Proverbs 15:22 says, “Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed” (ESV).

As a Christian, my perspective on guidance is rooted in my faith. I believe God is actively involved in my life because I’ve accepted Jesus as my Savior. Through the Holy Spirit, sent as a guide, and through my relationship with God—built on Bible study and prayer—I receive guidance toward the right path when I’m still, seeking, and grounded in Scripture. Proverbs 11:14 reinforces this: “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety” (ESV). For me, intuition isn’t some mystical inner voice; it’s either divine guidance or wisdom gained from experience.

Relying solely on gut feelings without self-awareness or authenticity can be misleading. As Francis Bacon wrote in his Essays (1625), “Read not to contradict and confute; nor to believe and take for granted… but to weigh and consider.” This applies to intuition, too: we must test our instincts against experience, counsel, and truth.

I know not everyone shares my spiritual or philosophical views, and that’s okay. I can only speak from my own experience and testimony: God has made Himself real to me, and I trust He’ll lead me when I seek Him. So, for me, what Jarvis calls intuition is better described as divine guidance or hard-earned experience.

What do you think? When you read a book, do you accept it all at face value, or do you sift through the ideas, keeping what resonates and setting aside the rest? How do you approach intuition or guidance in your life? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your perspective.

Onward to day four!

Day 38 of the 40-Day Challenge: How I Rediscovered Reading and Negotiation

~ David Willis ~ Leave a comment

Hey there, friends! Welcome to Day 38 of my 7-40 Challenge, where I’m committing to seven daily habits to spark growth, find my rhythm, and finally start crushing the goals I’ve set for myself. These past 38 days have been nothing short of transformative—productive, challenging, and deeply rewarding. Today, I’m thrilled to share a major milestone: I’ve finished my third book of the challenge, and I’m already diving into two others. Let’s unpack this journey and talk about a fantastic book that’s reshaped how I view conversations and negotiations.

The Power of Small Habits

My 7-40 challenge is all about building a foundation for bigger dreams. By focusing on daily habits—like prioritizing my physical health, nurturing my spiritual growth, and fueling my creative passions—I’m laying the groundwork for the life I want to create. It’s not always easy. Balancing these priorities while keeping my eyes on long-term goals has been a test of discipline. But let me tell you, the progress feels incredible. Small, consistent actions—like reading for 30 minutes a day—have compounded into something truly meaningful.

A Reading Renaissance

Before this challenge, I hadn’t read a full book in ages. Life gets busy, distractions pile up, and somehow, reading falls by the wayside. But committing to 30 minutes of reading each day has been a transformative. Not only have I finished three books in 38 days, but I’m also juggling two others simultaneously. That’s five books total—a feat I’m incredibly proud of. This habit has reignited my curiosity, sharpened my mind, and reminded me how much I love getting lost in a good book.

The latest book I finished? Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss. If you haven’t read it, buckle up—this one’s a must.

Why Never Split the Difference is a Game-Changer

Written by Chris Voss, a former FBI hostage negotiator, Never Split the Difference is a masterclass in negotiation that’s as gripping as it is practical. Voss draws from his high-stakes experiences negotiating with kidnappers and criminals, but what makes this book so powerful is how universal its lessons are. Whether you’re in a boardroom, parenting a toddler, or just trying to get a better deal on a car, negotiation is part of daily life.

Voss redefines negotiation as a conversation—a way to uncover what the other person needs while advocating for your own needs. It’s not about winning or losing; it’s about solving a problem together. His real-world examples are intense (think life-or-death hostage situations), but the strategies—like active listening, mirroring, and asking calibrated questions—are surprisingly easy to apply in everyday scenarios. I’m already noticing how these techniques can help me navigate conversations more thoughtfully, whether I’m collaborating with colleagues or working through a disagreement at home.

One story that really hit home was Voss’s explanation of how negotiation isn’t just for high-stakes deals—it’s everywhere. From convincing your kids to eat their veggies to closing a business deal, we’re negotiating all the time. Framing it as a collaborative conversation, not a battle, has completely shifted how I approach these moments. It’s empowering to know that by listening better and asking the right questions, I can build stronger connections and find win-win solutions.

What’s Next?

Reading Never Split the Difference has me hungry to learn more about communication and human behavior. But more than that, it’s reinforced the value of the 7-40 Challenge. By sticking to my daily habits, I’m not just checking boxes—I’m growing, evolving, and getting closer to the person I want to be.

Now, I want to hear from you! What book are you reading right now? Got a recommendation that could join my ever-growing list? Drop it in the comments—I’m always looking for the next great read.

Day 38 and Counting

This challenge has been a wild ride, and with only two days left, I’m more motivated than ever. These habits are becoming second nature, and I can already see how they’re setting me up for bigger wins in the future. Thanks for joining me on this journey—let’s keep pushing forward together. See you on Day 39!

Keep Feeding Your Dreams: A Journey of Growth and Self-Discovery

~ David Willis ~ Leave a comment

For as long as I can remember, one question has followed me like a shadow: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” As a child, it sparked curiosity and wonder. As an adult, navigating multiple careers and now in my mid-40s, it lingers—not as a sign of failure, but as a reminder that growth never stops. I’m not questioning whether I’ve “grown up.” I’ve lived independently for nearly three decades, built a life, and found passions. Yet, the question persists, whispering: Is there more? Is there something inside me still waiting to be discovered?

The answer, I’ve come to believe, should always be yes. Not because we haven’t found what we love or what we’re good at, but because life demands evolution. As the Roman philosopher Seneca once said, “As long as you live, keep learning how to live.” If we stop dreaming, stop exploring, stop stretching, we risk becoming stagnant—like a neglected sourdough starter.

The Sourdough Metaphor: A Lesson in Tending to Growth

I’m a passionate sourdough baker. There’s something magical about the process—whether I’m crafting crusty loaves, gooey cinnamon rolls, or delicious cakes, the possibilities with sourdough are endless. But the heart of it all is the starter, that living culture of flour and water that needs constant care. Neglect it for a few days, and it slows down. Ignore it longer, and a bad spot might form on the surface, or it might start to smell off. Without fresh flour, water, and attention, it loses its vibrancy.

Our dreams and aspirations are much the same. If we don’t feed them with new ideas, new books, new experiences, they stagnate. They start to “smell” of complacency, and in the worst cases, they become irredeemable—not because they were flawed, but because we stopped tending to them. “We are what we repeatedly do,” Aristotle reminds us. If we repeatedly ignore our inner spark, we risk losing it.

But here’s where the metaphor offers hope: a sourdough starter can be revived. Scrape off the bad spot, feed it fresh material, and with a little care, it bubbles back to life. So can we. No matter how long we’ve let our dreams sit untouched, we can always start again.

The Power of Asking Hard Questions

The question “What do you want to be?” isn’t just for kids. It’s a lifelong challenge to keep asking ourselves: Am I doing what I’m meant to do? Am I pursuing the things that set my soul on fire? These questions aren’t meant to haunt us but to push us toward clarity and action.

In my own life, I’ve taken on a personal challenge—what I call the 7-40 Challenge—committing to seven habits daily over 40 days to find my focus and turbocharge my achievement. It’s been a game-changer. It’s forced me to sharpen my focus, to clarify what I want to achieve, and to prioritize my goals. Some dreams move forward; others take a backseat, not because they’re unimportant, but because life requires us to choose what matters most in the moment. As Marie Curie once said, “Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood.” Understanding our priorities helps us move forward without fear.

Staying Alive and Bubbly

Like a thriving sourdough starter, we need to keep ourselves “alive and bubbly.” That means feeding our minds with new ideas, challenging ourselves with new goals, and taking responsibility for turning our dreams into reality. It’s not enough to have a spark of inspiration—you have to do the work. You have to show up every day, even when it’s hard, even when other priorities clamor for attention.

For me, this means continuing to ask: What’s next? What’s inside me that I haven’t explored yet? It means staying curious, staying open, and never settling for stagnation.

A Call to Keep Growing

So, wherever you are in your journey, I encourage you to keep feeding your dreams. Tend to them like a baker tends to their starter—with care, consistency, and a willingness to start again if things go awry. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and keep asking the big questions. They’re not a sign of being lost; they’re a sign you’re alive.

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”

— Eleanor Roosevelt

Here’s to day 37 of our journeys—may we all keep growing, keep dreaming, and keep bubbling with possibility

Day 34 of the 7-40 Challenge: Making Every Moment Count with Family

~ David Willis ~ Leave a comment

Hello, friends! Welcome to Day 34 of my 7-40 Challenge journey. Today is Saturday, August 30, 2025, and I’m buzzing with gratitude for another day filled with purpose, progress, and the people who make my heart sing—my family.

The 7-40 Challenge is all about building seven meaningful habits over 40 days, and today was a beautiful reminder that success isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about weaving those goals into a life well-lived. Today wasn’t just about hitting my targets (though I’m thrilled to say I did!); it was about soaking up the joy of being with my two favorite people, exploring the world together, and making memories that light up even the most ordinary moments.

Saturdays have a special kind of magic, don’t they? For us, it’s a day to pile into the car and set off on an adventure. Sometimes it’s trying a new restaurant, wandering through quirky thrift stores, or hunting for treasures at estate sales. Other times, it’s just driving around, noticing how the world around us has changed, and letting the road lead us wherever it wants. There’s something so freeing about being behind the wheel, my family by my side, with no agenda other than to be together. It’s these moments—laughing, exploring, just being—that turn an average day into something extraordinary.

Family time is sacred to me. Over the years, I’ve learned that it’s one of those irreplaceable things you can’t afford to put off. Sure, life gets busy—work, responsibilities, and all the “stuff” can creep in—but I’ve made it a priority to carve out space for the people I love most. Today was a perfect example of why that matters. We laughed, we explored, we connected, and it filled my soul in a way nothing else can.

As I reflect on today, I want to share three simple ways to make the most of your time with loved ones, whether it’s your family, friends, or chosen tribe:

1. Do Something You All Love
For us, it’s the thrill of discovery. Estate sales are like stepping into a wonderland of the unexpected. You never know what you’ll find—a vintage record, a quirky knickknack, or a glimpse into someone else’s life. It’s not just about the stuff; it’s about the stories behind it, the uniqueness of each find, and the joy of sharing that adventure together. Find that thing you all love—whether it’s hiking, cooking, or binge-watching a favorite show—and make it a ritual.

2. Get Everyone Involved
Today, we cranked up the car radio and took turns picking songs, from Pat Benatar’s fiery anthems to Creed’s soulful rock to Chris Daughtry and everything in between. We were singing, harmonizing, and smiling the whole way. It wasn’t just background noise—it was a shared experience that made us feel connected. Whatever you’re doing, make sure everyone has a voice, a role, a chance to shine. It’s those little moments of collaboration that make the day unforgettable.

3. Don’t Wait Too Long to Eat
Okay, this one’s practical but so important. Shopping or exploring on an empty stomach? Recipe for disaster. We learned that the hard way today, but a quick stop for a sandwich saved the day. Keep the hangry vibes at bay, and you’ll all have a better time.

As I wrap up Day 34, I’m filled with gratitude. I hit my goals for the 7-40 Challenge, but more than that, I got to live a day rich with love, laughter, and connection. I hope you’re having an amazing weekend, chasing your dreams and spending time with the people who matter most to you. Here’s to making every moment count—and to seeing you on Day 35!