Acting Like the Person You Want to Be: A Path to Change

A few years ago, I had the privilege of being part of a business mentoring group that brought together a diverse group of business owners. Our goal was to work collectively on improving personal skills and problem-solving challenges in our businesses. During one of our meetings, the conversation turned to how we could better manage our time and ultimately be the best versions of ourselves.

One of the members shared a change he had recently made to his daily routine. He started waking up before sunrise to do his reading, set his goals, stretch, and then work out. This change had completely transformed not only his routine but his overall success and happiness.

The director of the call asked him what prompted these changes, and what he said stuck with me. He replied, “I decided to start acting like the man I want to be. The man I want to be doesn’t stay up late drinking, eating junk, or aimlessly scrolling through my phone. The man I want to be is driven, dedicated, and committed to being the best version of myself. And this is what I think that looks like.”

That statement has stayed with me ever since. It’s something I reflect on regularly—not just for myself, but as a coach and a leader as well. When I struggle with making decisions, whether it's about my own health or for my family, I ask myself: “What would the best version of me do?”

So, I ask you the same question: What about you?

Are there things you’re choosing not to do because it seems “easier” right now?

Are there small changes that could make a big impact on your life, your schedule, your health, and your wellness, but you're avoiding them because it's more comfortable to stick with what’s familiar? What would the best version of you do in this situation?

Maybe it's waking up earlier to commit to your workout, or making time to be present with your family. For most of us, there are things we know we could be doing—but we don’t do them because, well, we just “don’t want to.”

But here's the question: What are we missing out on? What if the “easier” choice isn’t actually easier in the long run? What if the discomfort of change is what leads us to a better, healthier life? What if that small change, though uncomfortable at first, is the very thing that brings us closer to the happiness and fulfillment we’re all searching for?

In the end, every person we meet is striving for the same thing—growth, happiness, health, and well-being. And sometimes, it takes a small shift in how we think about our decisions to start creating the life we truly want.

So, take a moment and ask yourself: What would the best version of you do today?