In my last blog post, I discussed three things I have removed from my life to achieve success. But removing things is only half the battle. When you clear something out of your life, you create a vacuum, an empty space that, if left unfilled, can easily be taken over by something just as harmful as what you removed. That’s why it’s essential to be intentional about what you replace it with.
James Clear, in his book Atomic Habits, explains that breaking a bad habit is not just about stopping the behavior; it’s about replacing it with something better. Our minds and bodies crave routine and structure, so if we don’t actively choose what we put in, we’ll likely revert to old ways. That’s exactly what I’ve done with these three key additions to my life, and they’ve made all the difference in my journey to success.
1. Exercise
This has been a major game-changer for me. For most of my life, I was a size 4 or 6. Believe it or not, I used to wish I were thicker because, where I’m from, that was the ideal. Being too skinny wasn’t considered attractive. I also didn’t grow up in an environment where exercise was promoted, and because I didn’t need to exercise, I never did.
Fast forward 30 years. My metabolism slowed down, life’s stresses piled up, and gaining weight became much easier than losing it. In just three years, I went from a size 8 to a size 16. Now, don’t get me wrong—if you’re a 16 or above, I’m not saying that’s a bad thing. But for me, with my bone structure, an extra 40 pounds felt like carrying a weight I wasn’t built for. I was constantly exhausted, out of breath from just walking short distances, and simply didn’t feel like myself anymore.
Since adding exercise to my life, everything has changed. I have more energy, my confidence has improved, and I just feel good. Not only that but working out has become a form of stress relief and mental clarity for me. The Bible reminds us that our bodies are temples (1 Corinthians 6:19–20), and taking care of the body God has given me is an act of stewardship. I don’t exercise to fit a certain size anymore; I do it to feel strong, energized, and capable of showing up fully in my life.
2. Perpetual Learning
I am always intentionally learning something. And I mean always. Learning is one of the greatest privileges we have, and I absolutely love it. Right now, I’m learning Russian. Last year, I got a permaculture certification and picked up breadmaking and embroidery. Who knows what I'll dive into next year?
Learning keeps me young. It gives me something to look forward to. It sharpens my mind, adds to my skill set, and, most importantly, allows me to pour into others. Proverbs 18:15 says, “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.” Knowledge and wisdom are priceless, and I truly believe that learning keeps us hopeful. When I’m learning, I’m growing. When I’m growing, I’m living with purpose.
Plus, being in a constant state of learning helps me connect with different people and ideas. It expands my perspective and makes life more interesting. Whether it’s a new language, a hands-on skill, or an entirely different way of thinking, I know that investing in learning will always be a worthwhile pursuit.
3. Balance
I am a doer, no doubt about it. If something needs to get done, I get it done. As a single parent, I have to. If I could work 18-hour days, seven days a week, I probably would. But I’ve learned that constant work without rest, without connection, and without God is a surefire way to burn out and lose sight of what truly matters.
Balance has become essential for me. When I work nonstop, I’m not investing in my children the way I should. I’m not making time for the people I love. I’m not prioritizing my relationship with God, spending time in prayer, reading His Word, and simply being still in His presence.
Psalm 127:2 says, “It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep.” God never designed us to grind endlessly. He created rest for a reason.
When I take time to step away from work and engage in other areas of life that bring me joy—like spending time in nature, laughing with my kids, and having deep conversations with friends—I find that I actually become more productive, not less.
We weren’t meant to be robots. We need balance physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Work is important, yes, but so is life.
To sum it up, adding exercise, perpetual learning, and balance has been transformational for me. These three things have not only helped me reach my goals but have also made me a healthier, happier, and more fulfilled person.
If you're on your own journey to success, I encourage you to think about what you need to add to your life. What’s missing? What’s draining you? What could be fueling you instead?
God has given us the ability to grow, change, and become better versions of ourselves—let’s not waste that gift.
What have you added to your life that has made a difference? Let me know in the comments. I’d love to hear from you!
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