David Willis Blog

The 7-40 Challenge: Finding Gratitude in the Grind of Yard Work

Hey there, folks! Welcome back to another installment of the 7-40 Challenge, where I’m pushing through the second round, now deep into week two. I’m making solid progress, and for that, I’m stoked! Today’s post is a little different, though—less about a normal exercise session and more about the unexpected workout that real life throws at you. Spoiler alert: it involves a lawnmower, a jungle of a yard, and a whole lot of gratitude.

Today’s exercise wasn’t planned. It wasn’t a neatly programmed set of reps or a long walk. Nope, it was just me, out in the yard, wrestling with the wild overgrowth that’s been neglected for far too long. I spent hours taming the beast—mowing, trimming, and sweating my head off. Let me be real with you: I’m tired this evening. But you know what? There’s a deep, satisfying ache in my bones that comes from knowing I accomplished something worthwhile.

As the Roman philosopher Seneca once said, “Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body.” Ain’t that the truth? Today’s yard work was a reminder that sometimes the best workouts happen outside the gym, in the messy, sweaty reality of taking care of the place we call home.

I’ve got a bit of a love-hate thing going with yard work. I love when the yard looks crisp, clean, and inviting—like something out of a magazine (or at least, close enough). But mowing? Ugh. I used to dread it. Back when I was younger, I’d grumble my way through it, annoyed that I had to do it. Fast-forward to now, and something’s shifted. Maybe it’s the new place we’ve moved into, or maybe it’s just me getting a little wiser (or at least, less whiny). These days, I’m trying to approach mowing with a new mindset: I don’t have to do it—I get to do it.

That simple flip in perspective changes everything. I get to take care of this home we’re building. I get to make it beautiful, to keep it sharp and well-maintained. It’s not my favorite task in the world—let’s not get carried away—but there’s a quiet pride in looking out over a freshly mowed lawn and knowing I put in the work. Today, I’d even say I did it well.

As I was out there today, sweating under the sun, I couldn’t help but think of another gem from history. The poet Kahlil Gibran wrote in 1923, “Work is love made visible.” That hits me hard as I think about pushing the mower back and forth. Yard work, as mundane as it can feel, is a small act of love—for my home, for my family, for the life we’re creating here. It’s not glamorous, but it’s meaningful.

So here’s my thought for you tonight: gratitude changes the game. I’m learning to face each day with a heart full of thanks, even for the stuff that makes me groan. This life? It’s a gift. Every blade of grass I cut, every weed I pull—it’s a chance to steward what I’ve been given. It is a gift from God and I’m grateful for it, even the sweaty, tiring parts.

Wherever you’re reading this, know that I’m thankful for you. I hope you’re having an awesome day, surrounded by people you love, maybe even tackling your own version of “yard work”—whatever that looks like for you. Keep showing up, keep finding the good in the grind, and I’ll catch you tomorrow for Day 10 of the 7-40 Challenge. Stay grateful, friends!

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!

David Willis Blog

Day 6 of the 7-40 Challenge: Embracing Gratitude in a World That Moves Too Fast

Hello there! Welcome to Day 6 of the 7-40 Challenge. If you’re just joining me, this is my journey through 7 daily habits over 40 days of intentional living, growth, and self-reflection. Today, we’re diving deep into something that’s often overlooked in our hustle-filled lives: gratitude.

In a world that’s constantly bombarding us with notifications, deadlines, and distractions, it’s all too easy to take things for granted. We rush through our days without pausing to appreciate the simple miracles around us—the breath in our lungs, the people who light up our lives, or the opportunities that come our way. But here’s the stark truth: it could all vanish in an instant. Life is fragile, and I’ve learned that lesson the hard way.

A Brush with the Edge: My Wake-Up Call

I don’t have to dig too far into my past to remember a time when gratitude wasn’t just a nice-to-have—it became my lifeline. Seven years ago, I was struck down by a serious illness that required immediate medical intervention. The doctors were upfront: there was a real  chance I wouldn’t make it through. In those harrowing moments, everything shifted. It wasn’t just about surviving; it was about rebaselining my entire existence.

That experience stripped away the noise and forced me to confront what truly matters. My relationship with God? Non-negotiable. My wife and son? The absolute core of my world. My closest friends? Irreplaceable. The way I spend my time each day, and the work I pour my energy into? Suddenly, the things I spent too much time worrying about didn’t make sense anymore. It was like hitting the reset button on life, and emerging on the other side with clearer priorities.

Fast forward to today, and I’m still riding that wave of profound thankfulness. I’m grateful for my deepened faith, for the unwavering support of my family, for friends who show up in the big and small moments, and for work that challenges me while bringing genuine fulfillment. Gratitude isn’t just a feeling for me—it’s a daily practice that keeps me grounded.

The Obligation of Gratitude: Leading by Example

Here’s where it gets real: feeling grateful comes with a sense of responsibility. I see it as an obligation—and even a personal challenge—to model this mindset for others. In a society that loves to play the victim card, it’s tempting to let life just “happen” to us. We complain about the traffic, the workload, the endless scroll of bad news. We forget to choose a posture of gratefulness, slipping into autopilot and taking everything for granted.

But that’s not the path I want to walk. It’s not who I aspire to be. Instead, I choose to start each day with intention:

  • Gratitude to God: For the gift of another sunrise, another chance to live fully. He saved me, forgave me and breathes life into me every morning, and I refuse to overlook that.
  • Loving my family well: My wife and son are my anchors. I make it a point to remind them daily how much they mean to me—through words, actions, and undivided attention. 
  • Being a true friend: Not the surface-level kind, but one who listens deeply, cares genuinely, and shows up when it counts. Life’s too short for shallow connections.
  • Doing work that matters: I strive to tackle projects that challenge me, inspire growth, and make a positive impact. And I aim to do it with excellence, because why settle for less?

Gratitude isn’t passive—it’s active. It’s a choice that transforms how we navigate the world, turning potential pitfalls into opportunities for appreciation.

Your Turn: What Lights Up Your Gratitude List?

So, I turn the spotlight to you. In the midst of your own chaos, what are you truly grateful for today? Maybe it’s the coffee that kickstarts your morning, a supportive partner, a healthy body, or a dream you’re chasing. Whatever it is, big or small, let’s celebrate it.

Drop your thoughts in the comments below—I’d genuinely love to hear from you. Sharing our gratitude not only amplifies it but inspires others to pause and reflect. Who knows? Your story might be the spark someone else needs.

Thanks for joining me on this leg of the 7-40 Challenge. Let’s keep pushing forward with hearts full of thanks. Tomorrow brings a new day—stay tuned!

What are you grateful for? Let’s build a community of appreciation right here.