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

1. Own your choices—no excuses.
2. Prioritize connection over outcome
3. Seek growth in discomfort.
4.  

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