What does it take?

So we've started the journey - and it is an important one. Many people want to give their entire lives to the Lord, including their finances, but they honestly don't know how. We are going to walk through the steps together and I believe these 13 weeks are going to allow many to reach a new place in their faith.

But it is not easy. Did you catch that one during the first Super Savers session? Or maybe it hit you as you considered things you learned this week, or in reading your book, or as you completed your Quickie Budget. It may take some big changes. And change is tough. And discipline takes a lot of determination.

I have walked down this path with hundreds of people through Financial Peace University and personal financial counseling. There is one common denominator in those who win and those who don't quite make it.

So what does it take? I call it focused intensity. It looks a little different for each person, but it sometimes resembles a sort of anger, or drive, or desperation, or attack mode. It refuses to give up or make excuses. It holds nothing sacred - but evaluates everything and it makes some serious sacrifices. It often takes overcoming some fear. And it may require a tough talk with that pouty and sometimes childish person you see in the mirror everyday (don't take it personally - I see him, too).

Are there obstacles? Yes. Are there valid reasons some of the recommendations won't work in your situation? Sometimes. Have you tried some of the ideas and been rejected? Likely. But focused intensity doesn't give up. It doesn't take "NO" for an answer. It doesn't let the excuses pile up and keep you down. It keeps trying. It gets back up. It keeps looking for new ideas. It never quits. It never gives up. And over time, I have never seen it fail.

How serious are you about changing your life? What will it take for you to save money? Or to move to the next Baby Step? What does focused intensity look like in your life?