People talk about the importance of consistency in forming good habits. But lazy people are consistent. So are drug dealers. What I help people with isn't so much consistency; it's about changing their patterns.
When I make a goal, the first thing I do is declare it around my pack—my family, my dogs. We're more powerful as humans when we're in a pack. To do that involves projecting the right energy: calm and assertive. To be a good listener is to have calm energy—you're keeping yourself open-minded. It's a very conscious, instinctual, emotional, and spiritual way of being. This is important because sometimes the pack can teach you something, and you can't listen if you're in a totally assertive state. But the assertive state is also important because it gets things done. In the world of calm assertiveness, there are endless possibilities. In the world of fear, insecurity, uncertainty, and panic, your choices are very limited.
To get into a calm and assertive state, watch dogs. The first thing they do in the morning is stretch. Then they walk, and you see them breathing deeply, picking up on a scent. A good walk makes dogs happy. Rolling in the grass makes them happy. Rolling over in the grass after the walk and drinking water—oh my God, it's the ultimate satisfaction. We're animals too. So ease slowly into your mission, do it every day, and use the simplest things to keep you grounded. If you don't accomplish your goal—and even if you do—just keep going. Dogs, whether they win or lose, still celebrate.