By Monica Zollinger

Sometimes, it’s hard to live up to the expectations others place on us. But more importantly, it can be even harder to become the person we truly want to be. Deep down, we all aspire to greatness. We want to be successful, feel loved, and enjoy all the beauty life has to offer. But have you ever felt like something was holding you back from reaching your goals or receiving the blessings you long for? Maybe it’s a lack of time or money. Maybe it’s poor choices—or even an addiction.

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines addiction as “a strong inclination to do, use, or indulge in something repeatedly.” That includes drugs, alcohol, pornography, food, and even screen time—computers, phones, television. Addictions can take many forms, and they often come with heavy emotional and physical consequences: anxiety, irritability, loneliness, regret, anger, and depression.

In my own family, we’ve faced several types of addiction. The reasons behind them have varied—from wanting to fit in, to seeking stimulation, to numbing pain or avoiding hard truths. We’ve experienced deep sorrow, heartache, and setbacks because of these choices. And yet, I know it’s possible to break free. Even when you feel lost or hopeless, there is always a path to healing. You can experience a life of peace, love, abundance, and safety.

When addictions or habits take over, we lose clarity. We lose sight of what matters. The ability to make good choices can fade. But change begins the moment we’re honest with ourselves—whether we’ve hit rock bottom or simply long for something better. The first step to recovery is admitting we have a problem and seeking help. That’s how the journey toward healing and success begins.

Once we acknowledge the issue, the next step is desire. What do you truly want? What kind of relationships do you want to have? What kind of life do you dream of living? Decide that your dreams and your purpose are more important than the addiction. Then examine where your actions and beliefs are out of alignment. Are your behaviors helping you create the life you want?

Our thoughts shape our actions, and our actions become habits. If we don’t interrupt harmful habits, they eventually define our character. But the good news is this: we can choose to change our thoughts, and in doing so, we begin to change everything else.

Self-discipline is a decision. It’s choosing to take action—even when it’s hard—on what truly matters. It’s choosing to listen to that inner nudge that says, Do something different. Bad habits run on autopilot, but when we make a conscious effort to pursue our goals, we begin creating a new reality. Doubt and fear start to fade. In their place, we begin to feel faith, gratitude, and love.

And when we repeat that choice day after day, we begin to override the old programming. We begin to reclaim our power. We begin to heal.

Another powerful tool in the journey to freedom is writing. Journaling helps you process your thoughts, understand your behaviors, and stay grounded in your goals. Don’t just write what you don’t want—write what you do want. Be clear. Be specific. Be excited.

As Spencer W. Kimball once advised:
“Write… your goings and comings, your deepest thoughts, your achievements and your failures, your associations and your triumphs, your impressions and your testimonies.”
(“The Angels May Quote from It,” New Era, Oct. 1975)

When you write your desires down, you start to connect with the why behind your actions. You tune into the impressions that come, and you learn to trust those quiet whispers of guidance. Through this process, you begin making choices—not from old subconscious programming, but from a place of intention and faith.

There was once a wise and powerful king who taught through example and service. He knew his people would face hard things. His counsel was simple but profound:
“Be diligent, that ye may win the prize.”

The truth is: change takes time. It takes intention. It takes consistency. But when we commit to that process, when we record our thoughts, take inspired action, and draw strength from a higher power through prayer, gratitude, and service—we will see transformation.

Your journey is sacred. And you can become the best version of yourself. One choice, one day, one page at a time.

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•   To discover how to start choosing more effectively now, read The Jackrabbit Factor (FREE!)  
•   If you want more step-by-step guidance on creating the life you really want, join me in the Mindset Mastery program.
•   If you want my help overcoming that giant obstacle right in front of you, learn more and sign up for Genius Bootcamp.