Always. No Matter What.

Top o' the morning to you!

I want to tell you about a recent full day of mine. I was headed out of state on a little family adventure. Even though I had an early flight and a full day of travel, I still wanted to set the tone right.

Even when it’s busier than usual, it still matters to me how I start my day.

I am here to share a simple little life hack I use that has helped me a lot the past few years.

First, I pray. Then, I contribute.

I ask God for help with my day, and He helps me contribute.

Contribution looks like writing an email to you, journaling to process my emotions, or typing out my observations about something I'm learning. I don't always share what I write down, but often I do. 

The magic is in the creation and in processing the ideas my brain brings to mind. It keeps my mind flowing with ideas and thinking critically about spiritual matters, relationships, health, leadership, and more.

I don't see myself as having to add value everywhere (which is why I don't always share what I create), rather I see myself as having the habit of critical thinking - a tool that's sharp and ready to use when needed.

Contribution looks like the 748 content ideas I've written and saved in a folder in my email over the years.

These ideas are sermons, podcast episodes, conference presentation ideas, emails, workbooks, books, letters to loved ones, and video scripts.

I believe God made each and every one of us creative, and when we invest time to process our ideas, we reflect His glory. 

I've got a lot to learn, process, and share, and so do you. Creativity is part of my purpose, and I believe it's likely part of yours, Dana.

Living out your purpose can seem scary until you break it down into little daily pieces.

Most days this simple, rebellious little prayer + contribution ritual takes 30-60 minutes to do.

Today, I only had 20 minutes after praying. 

It's enough.

I know I’ll feel better because I’m creating something to share with you first thing.

What could feel better than starting every day with a win?

When I say First Thing, I mean it!

• Before I do my OCD-ish triple-check on our stove burners upon leaving our house.

• Before I order a grande oat milk latte at the OKC airport Starbucks.

• Before I prep on the plane for my next speaking engagement about increasing your energy. 

I’m doing something that helps me carry out my personal value for contribution (giving time, money, service, or knowledge to make a difference in the world).

I prayed first, and now I'm offering a creative contribution to the world even if it’s only for 20 minutes today.

That's the whole plan. That's it. That's the win.

It's not a trick. It's the power of self-discipline (another value of mine).

Maybe you're reading this email thinking you don't have the energy to live out your values in 2024.

I get it, I really do. I was once in your shoes. 

Monday mornings used to be a drain on me before I even rolled out of bed.

That doesn't have to be your story.

Your story can be to pray first and contribute second in a way that amplifies your personal values.

In fact, today could be your day to switch course.

You've got to stop that Monday morning energy leak before you can live with greater purpose. Even if your Monday morning is a holiday, like today.

Pray, then contribute. Always and no matter what. 

So if you haven't yet, I encourage you to take a moment to pray as you kick off your week, friend. Then make a creative contribution.