Stardate 01.09.2026
It’s day nine of the new year.
How’s it going so far?
Does it feel fresh and hopeful — or is it starting to resemble a rerun of mistakes from years past? If it’s the latter, today might be a good day to look under the hood and run a few diagnostics.
That’s not easy. Our brains prefer consistency. Sometimes that’s a gift — especially when we’ve built solid habits that move us toward long-term goals. Other times, consistency keeps us stuck. The hardest changes usually involve rewiring the mental pathways connected to old, unhelpful habits.
Your brain may already be pushing back as you read this. That’s normal.
If you feel the urge to stop reading and move on, you’re actually on the right path. Awareness is the first sign that cruise control has been engaged. If cruise control wins out completely, nothing changes. But if you override old programming, don’t be surprised when your brain challenges you every step of the way.
One helpful exercise is to write down everything you want to accomplish in the next twelve months. Put that list somewhere you’ll see it every day. Let it remind you that you want different results — and that you’re willing to do something about it.
For me, overriding cruise control doesn’t happen in a single day or even a single month. I aim for one percent better each day. I also measure results and keep better records, because I’ve learned my own brain can be very persuasive when it wants to return to familiar routines.
If you truly want 2026 to be different, imagine where you could be if you won the battle in your head and followed through on the changes you’re dreaming about.
Avoid the temptation to put things off.
It’s already day nine.
If you had a false start, this is your moment to begin again.
Manual override takes effort — but it works.
I’m cheering for you.
Have a great day.
Captain’s Addendum
Bones: Let me get this straight — the problem isn’t the engine, it’s the driver refusing to touch the wheel?
Spock: An accurate assessment, Doctor. Human autopilot favors familiarity over improvement.
Bones: That explains a lot… including most of my patients.
Spock: Change requires conscious intervention. Without it, repetition is inevitable.
Bones: You mean there’s no shortcut?
Spock: None that are sustainable.
Bones: I hate sustainable.
Spock: Your objection has been logged.
Michael’s Reflection:
I’ve learned that God invites us to participate in our own renewal. Grace gives us strength, but we still have to reach for the controls. One percent better is how I honor that partnership — gently, honestly, and consistently.
Scripture for the Journey
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
— Romans 12:2
Mission Log
Status: Manual override engaged
Objective: Renew the mind, one choice at a time
Reminder: Progress beats perfection
Thank you for showing up today.
May God give you clarity, courage, and patience as you take the next small step forward — and may that step lead you closer to the life you’re being invited to live.
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