How often do we wait for motivation to show up—especially when it comes to our kids?
I’ve been there too, thinking it would just "hit me" when the time was right. But here’s what life has taught me: real motivation isn’t found; it’s built through action.
In this episode, I’m getting real about what motivation actually looks like when you’re a dad. I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes story of how my teenage son challenged me to step way outside my comfort zone — all the way to a bodybuilding stage. It wasn’t about winning medals or getting a six-pack. It was about showing up, pushing through the hard days, and keeping promises to myself and to him.
I’ll break down the three simple but powerful rules we lived by during this journey—rules that helped us grow stronger as individuals and even closer as father and son. This isn't just about fitness. It’s about choosing connection, ownership, and legacy, even when it’s uncomfortable.
If you’ve ever felt stuck, waiting for a spark to get started, this one’s for you.
Become the best husband and leader you can: www.thedadedge.com/mastermind
In this episode, I'll explore:
- Why waiting for motivation can cost you priceless moments with your kids.
- The three simple rules that helped us grow stronger—on and off the bodybuilding stage.
- Why keeping promises to yourself builds lasting trust with your family.
- How saying "yes" to challenges can create memories that last a lifetime.
Here's what research supports about the power of action and intention:
- Studies show that couples who engage in regular, small acts of kindness report a 28% increase in relationship satisfaction.
- Research indicates that setting specific, shared goals increases the likelihood of improved communication and intimacy by 35%.
- Prioritizing quality time has been shown to reduce feelings of loneliness in relationships by 20%.
If you're ready to stop waiting for motivation and start actively building a stronger, more connected marriage, this episode is for you. Let's take that first step together.
Key Takeaways
- Own your choices—no excuses.
- Prioritize connection over outcome
- Seek growth in discomfort.
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What You’ll Learn
00:00 - Introduction
00:41 – The Three Rules to Live By
01:13 – Keeping Promises to Yourself
03:33 – The Bodybuilding Challenge with My Son
04:52 – Family New Year’s Traditions
06:18 – Confronting the Challenge: Initial Reactions
07:13 – The Power of Shared Motivation
07:59 – Changing Your “Why” and Motivation
08:44 – The Value of the Journey, Not Just the Results
09:59 – Lessons from Training Together
10:40 – Reflecting on Achievements vs. Experiences
11:36 – The True Value of Time Spent with Loved Ones
12:12 – A Message for My Son
13:04 – Taking Opportunities Before They’re Gone
13:35 – Committing to the Process Together
14:16 – Digging Deep for Your “Why”
14:53 – What Really Matters: Metals vs. Memories
15:22 – Closing Thoughts and Next Week’s Episode
Links
www.1stphorm.com/products/level-1/?a_aid=dadedge
www.thedadedge.com/friday205
www.themensforge.com
www.thedadedge.com/25questions
www.thedadedge.com/alliance
The Dad Edge Podcast 