Let’s make a deal!

All valuable longer-term objectives require a shorter-term exchange. I like to think of it as a trade-off, not a sacrifice. I’m exchanging this now for that later because it’s more valuable to me. 

Sometimes it’s a sacrifice, I guess, but that’s just a more severe word. It sounds ominous and one-sided. Plus I think exchange is more accurate and less emotionally intimidating than sacrifice.

The exchange can be your money, time, resources, relationships, comfort, fun, security, or anything else, in return for longer-term value that means something important to you.

All you have to do is identify the trade-off. This now for that later. Name your exchange. Be honest with yourself.

Discipline is the shortcut. Do the work