Today was the first day that I noticed that I have completely forgot about Instagram for the past few days. Like forgot it existed. Which, having my business on the platform and forgetting entirely about it is probably not great for new clients. But I don't care. They say 3 weeks is where a habit solidifies itself, and that rings true for this situation, as well. Habit broken. Now what? How do we go back into that space with what we've learned? What boundaries are you going to create for yourself? What have you been focusing on with the extra time and mental capacity that you now have?

It's been several days since updating on the December Challenge from me. I apologize, but I have had a lovely time not even thinking about work, or technology. It hasn't all been sunshine and rainbows, as we're living in the post-Christmas chaos of cleaning out and organizing new things. But the boys are happy, and the gifts they've received have all been a blessing; leaving the tv off and knees and hands dirty as they shuffle around the floor, ride dirt bikes and scooters outside, and build all the Legos. Christmas is meant to be taken in with an open heart and a focused mind. We had a great Christmas. I hope you did, as well. I've redownloaded Instagram on my phone in the meantime, and when I have opened it, I almost despise it. I mentioned I would check it periodically throughout the month for messages or notifications that were important to my business, but with this challenge, I've developed a negative view of the app. Honestly, it's clouded my creativity with moving forward on how I want to market to my audience and potential clients. I've been thinking a lot lately with how I want to help people; what's most important to me. Faith, Health, and a Deeper Experience in this one life come to mind initially. Breaking those things down and making tangible steps out them are the easy part. Marketing this idea to the masses is the most difficult for me. Maybe y'all can help with this? Some of you are current clients, or have been previously: what is it that captured your interest? What were you looking for? From my perspective, each client has been looking for something different, but everyone either stays on, loving the support and encouragement, or we end with their goals met completely and they are able to move forward without support. I'm rambling here, but I just don't want to be another talking head spewing advertising language about how "busy dads can lose 30lbs+ in 3 months with my Super Dad Shred Program". Literally makes me gag. Can't stand it.

Dudes, It's been a few days since posting, and honestly that is on purpose. I've been immersed in seminary work and needed all the time I could get to get things turned in. Thank you for your grace in that. I've been thinking a lot about how I will return to social media and what I will take with me that I've learned during this time. I know I will be doing more of these challenges and looking to bring more guys into it with me. I want to encourage you to make this a weekly habit. Maybe we only allow social media 1-3 days a week. What are you thoughts? How will you continue utilizing your newfound control? What have you been focusing on during this time?

We're officially two weeks in. I think it's time to reflect on past two weeks and take a look at what you've done well, and how you can make the next two weeks even better. How can you continuously slow down. CS Lewis, in his introduction to the book "On the Incarnation" by Athanaius of Alexander, he mentions having a good pipe and pencil and wrestling over some tough theology. As a man after God's heart, that's something we should take into practice. Perhaps you're not a pipe guy (I actually own several pipes and enjoy sitting down with one every now again), but the intention here is sit down with the church fathers every now and again, or over the Word itself, and pour into the text. Removing social media makes this easier. I realize my attention span has gotten a bit broader, praise God. What can you do to worry less about production and more about reflection and intention?

I have been off Facebook but still addicted to my phone. I just need to put it down but I think the pull is still very strong. It’s been a tougher month. Very busy and feeling disconnected from my wife. Could use prayers in moving forward with the second half of the month!