Statement 1: Change or success is hard. 

1. New Rules of Lifting for Abs by Schuler and Cosgrove

Apparently I have a weak back and need to improve my core strength, and this book is supposed to target that. As the author goes through the workout programs and progression, he’s very frank in saying that there are days this is going to push you way out of your comfort zone. It will take time to get used to. And you will want to go back to your old ways. But if you really want core strength, this is the best thing for you. I know that will absolutely be true for me. I’ve worked out and lifted weights on a regular basis for the past 15-20 years, but I’ve never really added new exercises to my workouts. I’m comfortable in what I’m doing, and it’s easy to just go and do the routine. The routine, however, has led to a weak back. I’m going to have to get out of my comfort zone and persevere in doing difficult activities if I want to experience success in this venture.

2. Wordsmithy by Douglas Wilson

One of the quotes in the book I highlighted was “Don’t let laziness or fear get in the way.” The author in this section is encouraging writers to do writing that they don’t normally do as a way of “stretching” as a writer. But it can be scary to be an essay writer and to try to write poems. Or to be a fiction writer trying to write essays. Anytime people attempt something they’re not good at, there’s fear involved. Or laziness. People who want to be good at writing (or life) need to defeat that.

3. The Praying Life by Paul Miller

A quote that stood out to me from that book is, “Praying exposes how self-preoccupied we are and uncovers our doubts. It was easier on our faith not to pray.” The point that the author is making is that people who say that God and prayer is important in their lives don’t pray much because it’s easier not to. Prayer is difficult – it shows us something about ourselves, most notably our own weakness. In order to have a “praying life,” one must get past this and accept the weakness. It may be uncomfortable at first, but that’s what’s required.