Steve Alessi: Author of Alessi’s Angle, Pastor of Metro Life Church in Miami, Husband of World Renown Worship Leader Mary Alessi and Father of Four.
And that was the day I deleted Solitaire from my iPhone. Yes, I allowed a game to take precious time away from my family, my work, my creativity, and even my alone time. But, not anymore. I'm free from the addiction.
What time thieves are you struggling with? When you look at the 24 hours you have in your day, remember that every one of those hours and minutes are filled with opportunities that we either waste, or work to our advantage. Those that are wasted are lost and never found again. So, if you're needing to trim the fat, so to speak, here's a few things to remember.
Recognition: The first step is to see exactly what the thief is stealing that cannot be replaced. Whether it's time, self-respect or self-improvement, that which distracts us from what's important in life needs to be eliminated.
Decide: Don't negotiate any longer, but instead make the decision right now to move forward, so that you can begin distancing yourself from the behavior. Indecision keeps you from enjoying true freedom.
Act: Thinking without acting won't get it done. The fact that you've read this deep into this blog shows that you want to weed out the waste, so now it's time to act. Who needs to be deleted from your contact list? What habits need to be dropped? Do it right now! Don't waste any more time. Today is your day!
Focus: They say that the “why” is even more than the “what” – and that's what you must remember when you're tempted to give in to the voices that are calling you back to mediocrity. Clearly see how better life will be when you make the change.
The other night at dinner with my son and daughters, we were laughing over something one of my kids did, and it actually brought tears to our eyes because we were laughing so hard. I can't believe that I actually allowed Solitaire to steal some of those moments in the past. Promise to self … never again!
Since recognition is the beginning to ditching a habit, officially put the thief on notice by stating below what changes you would like to make in your life. If you think it, then ink it.
Very good blog Pastor. Second round of trimming coming up, LOL. Thank you. Have a blessed day. :)
You can do it Pastor.I am proud of you. Congratulations.
WOW! Thank you so much!!!!! I'm overwhelmed after reading your blog, Pastor Steve! Not because you said stuff I don't know, but because you placed me in front of myself, you cleaned the mirror and said, "go ahead and take a look". I don't have enough space to write down all the small foxes in my life that are pulling at the threads of the fabric of my life. God's word is so powerful and truth does set you free!!! Thank Pastor! Everything that matters to me must have priority and nothing short of that! Our tomorrows aren't owed to us and I want to enjoy every moment with my family and friends and serving God that I can. I must stop because I could keep tying. I love you Pastor!!!!!!!