Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Week 1: Change is Sustained with Accountability

As we begin this series, some of us are ALREADY making progress in areas in which we want to change. Our first assignment was to take the Self-Test and to talk it over/through with someone who could help us honestly assess our lives NOW so that we can make specific corrections to our lives that will result in change.

So often as adults, we forget how important follow-up, follow-through, accountability, and assessment is to ACTUAL improvement! I'm excited that you and I are "in this" together. In fact, in this week's CYL enewsletter, I quote a study in the New England Journal of Medicine, "if your closest friends gain weight, your chance of doing the same could increase 57%." Nicholas A. Christakis, MD, PhD, the study's lead researcher said, "To maintain a healthy lifestyle, it's important to associate with people who have similar goals."

If you know me and my balanced life philosophy, then you know that THIS step is usually the LAST step in a series. I've determined to make it the FIRST step in order for each of us to grab onto a sojourner, a friend, a companion, a co-worker, or family member and CHANGE with someone who is not going to undermine our progress or be "soft" on us.

This week, as you journal on all 4 pages daily, read the daily bible, record your eating and exercise goals and progress, I want you to go over your self-test with someone (it takes at least 30 minutes) and discuss each question. Ask for their suggestions, ask them to pray with you over your weaknesses, and to meet with you again at the end of our series.

So often, the ball drops with an assignment--and I'm coming to find that the later in the series, the more "dropped balls," so I'm starting at the end! Choose a person this week, post their initials and start this series with a commitment to change your life with accountability.

Be encouraged,

Becky

3 comments:

Laura Lynn said...

Reporting in on things so far.
EK and I have reviewed the questions. She suggested (among other things) I access them frequently. PA and I will probably discuss. She has the books, and she doesnt have time to read them at the moment.
Because she is a teacher, and also Mom and studying for Masters Degree, I will have to pin her down. I think we will work them together when I do.
Different people seem to fit the bill in different ways for me.
So I guess I have two partners in this.
Thanks Becky.

Diana said...

I asked and then reviewed with my new accountability partner. I have two also....one for the food I eat and now one for keeping the change. I am asking for healing in several areas. I am trusting that as I spend time daily with God, I will see the answers. I agree that accountability is the key. So here is to being focused. I am praising God all the way. Focus: Faith, Obedience, Called, Understood, Sanctified. Looking forward to the adventure.

Becky Tirabassi said...

keep the posts coming...:)

Becky