Words by Clint McLain | Image by Al Blanton

Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Clint McLain. I am a Christian, husband, father, son, uncle, and brother. This is my very first time to do anything like this, which is way outside of my comfort zone. When Al Blanton approached me with this idea, I became excited and nervous at the same time. I hope that you get something out of reading this. Even if it is just a simple nugget of truth, my intent is to be of value. So, let’s get into it.

I genuinely don’t like the approach of making New Year’s resolutions. Study after study shows that resolutions typically tail off within a month or two. That is why I like this idea that I’m going to share: “You’re either working and building towards a dream or vision that you have for your life, or you’re a victim of circumstances.”

I first heard this in 2008. I was listening to a radio interview where the guest was Dr. Kevin Elko. You may have heard of him. Just in case you haven’t, he is a sports psychiatrist that has worked with several sports franchises and teams. He is currently the sports psychiatrist of choice for Nick Saban and the Alabama Crimson Tide football team. His first year with Saban at Alabama was in 2008, and that is how I came across him. Dr. Elko has also written several books, most notably The Sender and The Pep Talk. I have followed him now for the past several years.

I encourage you to think on this idea. It has changed the course of my life many times. When I feel the stresses of life mounting up, this quote comes to my mind. I decided several years ago to no longer be a victim to the circumstances of life. I decided to build towards the life that God has designed for me. Here are some tips to help you begin building towards the life that God has designed for you:

1.     Pray for His vision for your life. You can’t build toward what is not known to you.

2.     Decide to begin taking steps towards that vision! A vision without a plan and action is just a dream. No plan and action = no reality.

3.     Remember this decision often. I heard Dr. Elko say once that a decision is a mother to motivation. To stay motivated, you have to remember your decision!

4.     Be kind to yourself. There will be challenging times. You may not always succeed in that moment. Don’t get swallowed up in self-pity. Remember the decision and get back on track!

I think that you’ll find this to be a more meaningful approach to the new you! Having yourself in line and working towards God’s vision for your life is far more powerful than the typical New Year’s resolutions that don’t last.

I hope that you found value from reading this. If so, then please pass it along to others! I look forward to making these contributions in the future. In the meantime, I pray that you have a great 2022! 78

Clinton A. McLain, Agency Owner, Liberty National

Ph: (205) 387-0531

Web: https://ln.globelifeinsurance.com/clintmclain

E-mail: cmclain@libnat.com

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