The three defining steps are:

• Identify our core values
• Take charge of our health 
• Create & follow our vision

At the heart of our MTP and the “P” in purpose and any subsequent success are our core values. The values which lay the foundation making us the person we are. Here we will learn the process of how to define and articulate your core values.

What are core values and why are they so essential to accomplishing our MTP?

Core values are the principles we live by yet most of us (I know I did) struggle with articulating these values. Core values are not extrinsic (i.e. money, fame etc) they are intrinsic, values such as: courtesy, honesty, and integrity, to name a few.

Being able to define as specifically as possible the things we intrinsically value will give us the energy to get us up every morning as we work towards achieving our purpose.

This will take dedicated time, reflection and research. It may take weeks or even a month or two.

I know it took that long for me, so here’s an example from my life which may help. I identified perseverance as one of my core values but the word perseverance just didn’t describe me so I looked up perserverence in a Thesaurus, requesting synonyms for it. 

When I saw the word “relentless” I knew this was a value which better described me.

Recommended reading: Mastering the Rockefeller Habits: Verne Harnish

If our core values are the energy to get us up every morning then the benefits of a good diet, good health and fitness regimen will be essential to sustain us throughout our lives.

If we are not worth 30 minutes a day to do some form of physical activity then we cannot expect a good quality of life as we age.

To start we’ll create a 20 minute morning routine of light exercise and stretching to kick start our day. This doesn’t have to be anything extensive but it will take discipline. Simply get our body and extremities moving and active, get the blood flowing and our joints loose and supple.

Having a healthy nutritious breakfast is also highly recommended. What we consider this to be is completely individual as every body and everybody is different and we must learn what foods and liquids are best for us.

Recommended reading: No Excuses – Brian Tracey 

A recommended practise is to spend five to ten minutes every morning visualizing the long term goal/result you are striving for. This practise can be bundled into our three times daily breathing discipline.  Visualize while you discipline your breathing.

The beauty of the way our brains work is it doesn’t know the difference between reality and imagination. This is one of the tools successful business people, professional athletes or any highly accomplished individual use to assist them in their journey. 

Recommended reading: The Inner Game of Tennis – Timothy Gallwey