"We don't rise to the level of our goals; we fall to the level of our systems."
James Clear, Atomic Habits
Are You Producing Fruit?
In our cohort, men are beginning to share their life plans. There are a few novel ideas and aspirations, but more similarities than differences. I think this is because most of us agree on the terms of biblical manhood. The reality is that we usually have the same goals, but we see men in many different places. All of us desire to be abiding in Christ, loving our wives sacrificially, growing a Godly circle of friends, and being faithful stewards with our money and fitness. You may agree on the goals, but are you bearing fruit in these areas?
Bad “Systems”
The downfall for most men is that they have approached their goals with bad "systems". The continual use of the snooze button could reveal a system that consists of no exercise and late nights--leading to drowsy mornings. A system of opening bills immediately after work may be communicate to your wife that tasks are more important than connection, and consequently, marital oneness suffers.
Prep Well
Conversely, preparing for your quiet time the night before—by getting your Bible, journal, and glasses together and having the coffee ready—is a system that will lead to a consistent discipline.
Do You Need an Overhaul?
Maybe your systems need to be overhauled. Here are a few "system modifications" for you to consider:
Begin everyday with God at the same time every day.
Automate financial tasks – bills, giving, and investing.
View TV as a planned event (perhaps as a family) and not a pastime.
Create a scorecard to track all measurable tasks in your Life Plan. (This was a recent exercise in MD5 Lab)
Create longer passwords on social media accounts to prevent compulsive checking.
Caleb Crawley
MD5 Facilitator