Well,

2026 is upon us, and if there is one thing I can encourage you with, it is this:

“The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD.” (Proverbs 21:31, NLT)

Saddle up,

-C

If you don’t start whatever it is you want to accomplish, you’ll let inaction master imperfect action.

That’s a dangerous cycle - and it applies to every area of life: trying a new routine with your wife or kids, starting a business, prioritizing your health, your faith, your relationships, all of it.

If we, as leaders of our homes, can’t lead by taking imperfect action, how can we expect those under our influence to do the same?

Tackle the fear of starting head-on. Let action speak louder than intention.

I’ve failed at this more times than I’d like to admit. I’ve let the fear of failure (or looking “cringe” or awkward) drive my decisions. And in doing so, I’ve robbed myself, my family, and those around me of the gift of who God created me to be.

This year, I’m working towards making whatever it is I want to exist exist - as fast as I can. I can always make it good later.

Don’t let Satan fool you. This has real consequences.

The good news? We have the power to change course - today!

If this hits close to home, I’d encourage you to take advantage of the 14-Day Accountability Sprint. It’s free for subscribers and designed to help you take daily action on one clear commitment (with someone noticing if you don’t!).

Be where your feet are.

Especially in these child-rearing years, treat life as if nothing else is on the horizon except the moment you’re in.

What this really challenges is our ability to be grateful for what we have, who we’re doing life with, and just how blessed we are. This is a battle worth fighting, with implications that last a long time.

This has been incredibly relevant for our family lately - and honestly, a struggle.

I don’t know if it’s the culture of always asking “what’s next” or constantly needing something to look forward to, but we’ve noticed it seeping into our kids’ mindset:

“What are we doing later today?”
“What are we doing tomorrow?”

And these questions often come during (or right after) a great moment being made.

Can anyone relate?

We are responsible for the culture we set in our homes. So let’s make it a culture of the here and now. Let’s practice gratitude for the moment we’re in. And let’s model “being where our feet are” so our kids follow suit.

(Source: Headline sourced from Derek John’s The Dear Son Podcast)

Everyone is busy - especially those in leadership. Half the time, they don’t even remember what they asked you to do.

This update framework is low-hanging fruit. Given the general lack of proactivity in the workplace, mastering this is an easy way to stand out and grow professionally.

Here’s the 4-bullet update:

Stay proactive. Stay locked in. Stand out. Make moves.

(Source: Ben Meer’s Career Advice I know at 33 I Wish I Knew at 23)

PS - Are you reading this and thinking of another dad? You should probably forward this email to him.

The 14-Day Accountability Sprint is a private, text-based check-in designed to help you keep your word for 14 days straight.

This is optional - and included because you’re a subscriber.

No coaching.
No motivation speeches.
No group therapy.

Just a short, structured sprint where you set one clear commitment and someone notices if you don’t follow through.

If you opt in, you’ll receive simple & brief daily check-ins for 14 days. That’s it.

[Join the 14-Day Sprint]

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See ya next week.