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A decision
is an excellent place to start,
but it's only a start
by Thom Rutledge
Even the strongest decision to change is not enough to get the job done. A
few months ago, I came to the decision that I wanted to learn how to play
the harmonica (God knows why). My decision was --- and still is --- real; I
do want to learn to play the harmonica.
But these many months after making
my decision, I have not even touched a harmonica; and if you handed me one,
I would not be able to make music with it . . . because my decision has not
taught me to play. I am reminded of how many times I decided to quit
drinking, only to continue.
We mistakenly believe that when we fall short of achieving a goal, our
decision must be lacking in strength. We say, "I must not want it bad
enough." This implies that if we want something "bad enough," it will
magically --- or at least easily --- be ours.
We fail to recognize that
making a solid decision is only the beginning, and if we do not consciously
decide how to follow that decision with specific action, the results (aka:
the lack of results) are predictable. In other words, a decision cannot
teach you to play the harmonica.
A specific plan for change will include certain components: Action,
Support, and Success. This is the memorable acronym I told you about in
last week's E-Minder: A.S.S. (If I am serious about change, I have to get
my A.S.S. in gear.)
+ Action + ....
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