Scripture Reference: 

Habakkuk 3:17-19

Sometimes changing your actions, not your circumstances, is the secret to gaining strength and hope in discouraging times.

Summary

Do you ever feel like nothing is working out or that you just can’t get ahead? Many of us experience seasons where we feel discouraged, overwhelmed, or stuck. But today’s passage from Habakkuk offers a surprising mindset shift: our feelings often depend more on our perspective than our actual circumstances.

Habakkuk describes bleak scenarios involving failed crops, empty barns, and poverty. Yet he praises God anyway. What can we learn from this?

Often we try fruitlessly to change our feelings or thoughts first. But the key is to change your actions first. As discussed by neuroscientist Andrew Huberman, taking praise-oriented actions like prayer, worship, exercise, or immersing yourself in meaningful work literally changes your thoughts and biology. You’ll start to feel more hopeful and see solutions.

If you’re feeling discouraged, don’t obsesses over your problems or wait for the situation to change. Start taking positive actions like regular exercise, devotions, and practicing excellence in your daily work. You’ll be amazed how your outlook transforms.

Building a high-performance, God-honoring life requires establishing daily practices, not reacting to daily feelings. Let your actions shape your perspective. Offer praise through prayer and excellence. Regain strength for the journey, even in bleak seasons. You’ll be equipped to walk and even run on high hills!

Top 3 Growth Tips

• [2:55] Things change when you take action, not when you wait for circumstances or feelings to change. Start exercising, praying, or practicing excellence in your work every single day.
• [7:12] Multiplying your talents through consistent actions and practices is key to a high-performance life. Identify your professional practices and do them daily.
• [11:13] Writing a purpose-driven personal mission statement can help you stay focused on praise-worthy actions that bear fruit, instead of obsessing over problems.

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About Ken Ott: 

Kenneth Ott is an owner of multiple businesses, entrepreneur, husband, father, and Christian leader. Ken is the co-Founder of Metacake, an Ecommerce Growth Team and Dough Capital. Ken is an author, speaker, and business coach. To connect or learn more, visit: 

• KenOtt.com
• Ken on LinkedIn
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• Ken on Instagram
• Ken on Facebook
• Metacake - An Ecommerce Growth Team
• Dough - We own amazing DTC brands

Show Highlights

• [00:41] Success comes from establishing principles and practices, not reacting to daily circumstances.
• [2:55] Growth happens through consistent, praiseworthy actions, not waiting for change.
• [4:22] Don’t neglect fitness and faith practices just because life feels hard.
• [7:12] Identify and do your professional practices daily to multiply your talents.
• [9:04] This advice applies to anyone seeking a high-performance life.
• [11:13] A personal mission statement keeps you focused on fruitful actions.
• [12:55] Writing a purpose-driven mission statement helps maximize potential.