Financial Discipline Creates Freedom

 Stardate 11.04.2026

There are days when a few thoughtful decisions create opportunities that extend well into the future. Yesterday was one of those days.

My current work assignment has given me an opportunity to adjust my schedule for the remainder of the week. Originally, I requested vacation days for Friday and Saturday to accommodate a trip to San Diego. Sunday was already a scheduled day off.

After reviewing the schedule, I found a way to give back my vacation days for Wednesday and Thursday while keeping my original plans for San Diego. The leadership team at my temporary location is happy to have me available for two additional shifts. I'm happy because I can make the trip using only one vacation day.

Everybody wins.

This small adjustment got me thinking about something that has become increasingly important in our lives: financial discipline and the freedom it creates.

When my wife and I first moved to Iowa from Southern California, she checked out a book by Dave Ramsey from the library. We began following the Baby Steps outlined in his program. His approach gave us a framework for managing money and developing better financial habits.

We followed his recommendations during those early stages. Over time, we became comfortable with our financial discipline and eventually decided to introduce credit cards back into our lives.

This is where my approach differs from Dave's.

He strongly recommends avoiding credit cards. I understand his reasoning and respect his philosophy. I've chosen to use credit cards with a very specific rule. I pretend my credit card is a debit card.

The money must already be available. I pay the statement balance in full and never consider the available credit an extension of my income.

I also made a promise to my wife. If I ever incur interest because I overlook a payment due date, we will cut up our credit cards.

I understand the risk involved. Returning to credit card use took us outside our comfort zone. We believed we had developed the discipline necessary to manage that responsibility, and we've established a clear boundary to protect ourselves.

The rewards have opened some wonderful travel opportunities.

My Citi rewards balance has now grown to more than $1,000. That is enough to cover all expenses associated with our planned February vacation in Florida.

My plan is to request one week of unpaid Winter leave so we can enjoy two weeks in Florida. The accumulated rewards will fund the trip, keeping our vacation plans aligned with our commitment to living within our means.

There is another benefit developing during my current assignment. I'm staying at a Hilton property for 30 days and accumulating hotel reward points along the way. These points will come in handy when we're on the road with Luuucy, our vacation home on wheels, and we want to check into a hotel for a change of pace.

Looking further ahead, Stardate 05.21.2027 marks my fifteenth anniversary at my day job. That milestone brings an additional week of vacation every year. Having that extra time available will create even more opportunities for future travel.

I've had several conversations with people recently about financial discipline and the lifestyle it can help create. I've shared some of our philosophy without discussing private financial details.

Dave Ramsey has a familiar message about living like no one else today so you can live like no one else tomorrow. That message has stayed with me.

Our journey began with a library book and a willingness to follow a plan. The habits we developed continue to influence our decisions today.

Financial discipline also influences how I manage my book-writing business. I've established a budget of just $12 per month, which funds my annual Canva subscription. That subscription gives me access to the design tools and artwork I use to enhance my books.

I also have a little help along the way. Alberta assists me with Canva prompts that help elevate the quality of the artwork. My partner stipends and affiliate link income cover the Canva expense, allowing me to operate my book business at a net-zero budget.

It's another example of what thoughtful planning can accomplish. I can continue creating books, improving their presentation, and donating the proceeds from book sales to the University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital while keeping the operating expense covered.

There is another part of Dave Ramsey's philosophy that deserves recognition. His message extends beyond financial independence to the opportunity to give like no one else. That part resonates deeply with me.

My wife and I have always wanted our financial decisions to leave room for generosity. My book-writing journey is one expression of that commitment. Proceeds from my book sales are donated to the University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital. Every book that finds a reader creates another opportunity to support children and their families.

This is where financial discipline takes on an even greater purpose. The freedom we create can reach beyond our own household and become a blessing in someone else's life.

I am grateful for the choices we've made and the opportunities still ahead. There is something satisfying about knowing that yesterday's discipline can help make tomorrow's adventures possible.

Financial Discipline Creates Freedom.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Scripture – Luke 14:28 (NIV)

"Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won't you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?"

Captain's Addendum

Spock: "Doctor, the Captain appears to have discovered a way to turn vacation planning into a financial strategy."

Bones: "Wonderful. Maybe he can teach Starfleet how to travel without spending the entire ship's budget."

Spock: "An interesting application of logic, Doctor."

I've learned that planning for the future can be an expression of gratitude for the opportunities God has already placed in our lives. My wife and I continue to make decisions together, one step at a time. I'm looking forward to the adventures ahead, and I'm thankful for the freedom to enjoy them.

Live long and prosper!

A New Mission Begins

 Stardate 11.03.2026

My Tuesday began with prayers and meditation. With both complete, I turned my attention to the numbers from last night's sleep report.

My energy score was 68, and my sleep score was 69. I spent 9 hours and 5 minutes in bed, with 7 hours and 18 minutes of actual sleep. Deep sleep accounted for 1 hour and 14 minutes, while REM sleep added another 1 hour and 11 minutes. These daily measurements are necessary to help me achieve a 1% improvement in my overall health.

Yesterday involved a four-hour drive to my new assignment. After arriving, I was grateful to discover that my hotel room was quite comfortable. I settled in, unpacked, and enjoyed the opportunity to get some rest.

There is plenty to do here.

One of the pleasures of arriving at a new assignment is meeting the people who will become part of the team. Yesterday gave me the opportunity to meet new teammates and reconnect with familiar faces from previous store openings.

Some relationships have a way of picking up right where they left off. Seeing people again after working alongside them during earlier assignments is a welcome part of this journey.

I've been fortunate to help new employees and thousands of members get started over the years. Each opening brings another group of teammates who are beginning their own journeys. I enjoy being part of that process and helping people find their footing.

My assignment will keep me busy in the weeks ahead. There is already another trip on the calendar, too.

Later this week, I'll travel to San Diego for three days. I'll have an opportunity to reconnect with members of our pickleball board and meet our new national sponsor, Pickleball USA.

The $25,000 grant they awarded us pushed our fundraising total beyond our $200,000 goal. We are one of only two cities to receive this national grant. I'm looking forward to spending time with people who share our enthusiasm for growing the sport.

We are excited to bring outdoor pickleball to our community at no cost to players. None of this would be possible without the dedicated pickleball committee members who have worked tirelessly for more than two years.

I'm also excited to be back in San Diego, a place I called home for nearly 23 years before relocating to the Midwest to be closer to my wife's family.

Two different missions are unfolding this week. Both involve people, relationships, and opportunities to serve.

I was reminded of a passage from Proverbs:

"Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." — Proverbs 16:3 (NIV)

I begin each new assignment with prayers and meditation. I ask God to guide my steps and give me opportunities to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

This morning, I'm comfortable in my new surroundings. My bags are unpacked, my teammates are waiting, and there is plenty of work ahead.

I'm rested and ready.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Another assignment, Spock? And now he's heading to San Diego. When does this man take a vacation?"

Spock: "Doctor, I believe the Captain has already demonstrated a considerable capacity for balancing multiple missions."

Bones: "Well, I hope someone remembers to pack his sunscreen!"

I suppose Bones has a point. Even the most rewarding journeys require time to recharge.

Every new assignment gives me another opportunity to meet someone, lend a hand, and make a difference. I am grateful that God continues to provide opportunities to put those intentions into practice.

One day at a time. One person at a time.

Live long and prosper.

Another Assignment, Another Opportunity

Stardate 11.02.2026

Yesterday was a good day to be home.

I attended worship at my home church and later stopped by the recreation center near my home to check on the progress of our new pickleball courts. The asphalt is down. Seeing the progress on a project that will benefit our community was encouraging.

Late in the day, I received word that my next travel assignment had been approved. My bags were already packed in anticipation of the final project of a busy year.

This morning, my wife drops me off to pick up my rental vehicle. I'll be heading to Wisconsin for the final store opening of 2026.

Every assignment has taught me something new. I've met wonderful people, helped develop new teams, and shared what I've learned along the way. Each new location brings opportunities to make a difference in someone's life.

I've also been concentrating on developing new habits that support my overall health and wellness. Traveling can disrupt familiar routines, so I've been working on making healthy choices part of my everyday life, wherever I happen to be. Those habits are becoming an important part of my daily mission.

A message from my blog partner at DoNotAge® brought another reason to be thankful. He'll be traveling to the United States to help establish a new warehouse so the company can better serve its American customers.

I'm grateful for the encouragement and support they've given me throughout our partnership. They've also been encouraging me to develop my video skills. I've been giving that some attention, and I can see how this ability will benefit many areas of my life. Writing has been part of my daily routine for years. Video gives me another way to share the good things happening around me.

Another trip is on the horizon. I'll be traveling to San Diego to reconnect with my pickleball board and our national sponsor, Pickleball USA. They've invited us to join them in box seats during a professional pickleball tournament. I'm looking forward to spending time with the board, strengthening those relationships, and enjoying some outstanding pickleball.

There are plenty of reasons to give thanks as November begins.

Yesterday I was home, worshiping with my church and checking on the progress of our community courts. Today I'm preparing to work alongside another team in Wisconsin. Other opportunities are already taking shape.

Proverbs 16:3 (NIV) offers a simple reminder:

"Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans."

I have another assignment ahead of me. I'll bring what I've learned, remain open to new lessons, and trust God with the opportunities that come my way.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Another assignment, Michael? I hope you remembered to pack everything this time."

Spock: "Doctor, his preparations suggest a high probability of success. His willingness to continue learning is particularly encouraging."

Bones: "Well, let's hope Wisconsin is ready for him."

Some journeys require a suitcase. Others require a willingness to keep growing. I'm grateful that God continues to give me opportunities to do both.

Live long and prosper! 

Live Long and Prosper: A Journey Into Longevity Research

Stardate 11.01.2026

When I began researching material for my book, Live Long and Prosper, I wanted to learn more about the science of healthy aging. That journey eventually introduced me to DoNotAge®.

The company caught my attention through its connection to longevity research. As I learned more, I became increasingly interested in the quality of ingredients used in scientific studies. Researchers depend on reliable materials to conduct meaningful work. That raised an important question for me: Who is behind the products I choose, and what do I know about the company providing them?

I decided to learn more and eventually became a DoNotAge® customer. I have been purchasing products from the company for years.

In September, I traveled to London to attend a DoNotAge® longevity conference. The experience gave me an opportunity to meet people working in the field and learn more about the research and the company's involvement in supporting it.

Michael Mulligan with Alan Graves, founder of DoNotAge®, at the September 2026 longevity conference in London.

I came home with a deeper appreciation for the work taking place in longevity research. I also developed a stronger connection with a company whose mission aligns with an interest that has been part of my writing for many years: extending healthy lifespan for as many people as possible.

Over time, my relationship with DoNotAge® developed into a partnership. That gives me an opportunity to share what I have learned with readers who may be exploring the same questions about healthy aging.

November brings a major DoNotAge® sale, making this a good opportunity to explore some of the products discussed in my book. If you have been curious about a particular ingredient or product, you may find this a convenient time to learn more and consider whether it belongs in your own approach to healthy aging.

I encourage everyone to do their homework. Dietary supplements are not approved by the FDA for safety and effectiveness before they are marketed. Read the available information, understand what you are purchasing, and consult a qualified healthcare professional when appropriate. Each of us is responsible for making informed decisions about our health.

I continue to purchase directly from DoNotAge® because I value the company's connection to longevity research and my experience as a customer.

Partner Disclosure: I am a DoNotAge® partner. I may receive compensation when readers make purchases through my partner link. I have been a DoNotAge® customer for years and am sharing this opportunity based on my personal experience and interest in longevity research.

Explore DoNotAge® here:

Click here for Black Friday Deals from DoNotAge

Use discount code LLAP (Live Long and Prosper) at checkout for the available partner savings. Please check the company's website for the current sale details and discount terms.

Writing Live Long and Prosper gave me a reason to ask questions about the years ahead. The London conference gave me an opportunity to meet some of the people pursuing answers through research. I look forward to continuing to learn and sharing that journey with others.

Scripture reminds us in Psalm 92:14 (NIV):

“They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.”

I find encouragement in those words. There are still opportunities to grow, contribute, serve others, and make a difference at every stage of life. I hope my own journey encourages someone else to keep learning and take an active interest in the years ahead.

Join me here:
https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Bones: “Spock, I suppose the Captain has decided that living long requires a little homework.”

Spock: “An entirely logical pursuit, Doctor. His research appears to have taken him all the way to London.”

Bones: “Just remind him that there's more to life than reading ingredient labels.”

I have to agree with Bones on that last point. The years ahead are filled with opportunities to enjoy the people we love, serve our communities, and discover what God still has planned for us.

Live long and prosper. One day at a time.

Luuuucy, I'm Home

Stardate 10.31.2026

There's no place like home.

My Lawrence assignment came to an end yesterday. After several demanding days helping a new location welcome its members, it was time to pack up, return the rental car, and head home.

The previous day had been especially busy. We spent the day signing up 301 new members, keeping everyone moving, and helping the new location get off to a strong start. It was a nonstop day, and I was ready for some rest.

A colleague made my hotel checkout especially memorable. She had picked up a copy of the Lawrence Journal-World hot off the press and dropped it off for me. We had made the front page!

The headline read, "It's Finally Here."

The cover photograph was a drone shot from above, showing a full parking lot at the new location. What a wonderful image of the community's response!

I read the article during the drive home. It was a special reminder of the people who worked together to bring the new location to life. I'm grateful I had the opportunity to be part of the team.

There was another kindness waiting for me. My rental car location approved my request to waive the one-way drop-off fee. That allowed me to return the vehicle in Lawrence and ride home with my wife in her car. She drove while I caught up on some much-needed sleep.

Coming home also meant taking care of something special.

Our daughter had given me a personalized license plate for Lucy. She checked the availability and discovered that Luuuucy was available. Yes, that's Lucy with four U's!

I made a quick visit to the motor vehicle department and picked up the personal plates. Lucy now has a new identity, courtesy of a thoughtful gift from our daughter.

Today's title is a little tribute to Lucille Ball and the television classic I Love Lucy.

Luuuucy, I'm Home!

This morning, I'll be driving Luuuucy to cardio tennis. It's good to be home and back in familiar routines.

Psalm 121:8 (NIV) reminds me:

"The LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore."

Thank you, Jesus, for safe travels, thoughtful people, family, and the many blessings tucked into an ordinary day.

I'm home. And I'm grateful.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

---

Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Spock, I believe our Captain has finally returned to familiar territory."

Spock: "Indeed, Doctor. Although the vehicle appears to have acquired an unusually large number of vowels."

Bones: "Four U's? I suppose that's one way to make a homecoming memorable."

Sometimes the best parts of a journey are the people who help us along the way. Today, I'm grateful for family, colleagues, and the simple blessing of coming home.

Live long and prosper.

A Final Stop Before Heading Home

 Stardate 10.30.2026

There is one more stop on today's schedule before I begin the journey home.

My assignment away from home is coming to an end. This morning, I'll stop by the store to say goodbye to Kayla, our general manager. We've spent the past several weeks working toward the opening of a new store, and yesterday we celebrated that milestone with a ribbon cutting.

The mayor welcomed our new members. Kayla had the honor of cutting the ribbon, and I had the opportunity to watch a team bring months of preparation to life.

I've enjoyed getting to know the people who make this operation work. My role has been to share some experience, encourage new team members, and lend a hand wherever needed. Every day brought an opportunity to connect with someone new.

This morning, I'll have a few minutes with Kayla before checking out of the hotel. Then I'll point the car toward home.

I'm looking forward to being with my family again. There is something special about returning home after an extended assignment. The familiar surroundings and the opportunity to spend time together are gifts worth appreciating.

Psalm 126:3 offers a beautiful reminder:

"The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy." — Psalm 126:3 (NIV)

I have plenty of reasons to be thankful this morning. Lawrence has been a good chapter in this ongoing adventure.

Captain's Addendum

Spock: "Your assignment is concluding, Captain. One final visit remains."

Bones: "And I'd say a little time at home is a mighty fine prescription."

Spock: "Agreed, Doctor. The next mission will arrive soon enough."

Sometimes the most meaningful part of an assignment is the people we meet along the way. I'll carry those connections with me as I head home.

Thank you, Jesus, for another opportunity to serve, learn, and encourage others.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Live long and prosper!

Mayor of Lawrence Welcomes New Members

Stardate 10.29.2026

I was up early this morning to witness a special moment in Lawrence. The mayor welcomed our new members just before our general manager, Kayla, cut the ribbon to officially open our new store.

Some members had camped out around midnight, hoping to be first in line for the new deals. By the time the ceremony began, Chamber of Commerce representatives and community members had gathered to watch.

I felt great joy in my heart as I watched everything unfold. Senior members of our team were on hand to thank the new members for their support. There was something special about seeing the community come together to welcome a new business and the people it serves.

I would like to thank the mayor, the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce, and the entire community for embracing us so warmly. Your welcome has made this assignment memorable.

Once the ribbon-cutting ceremony was over, I joined my wife for breakfast. We're planning a relaxing swim at the aquatic center before my official shift begins.

Life has a wonderful rhythm when we take time to appreciate the milestones and the people who share them with us. I'm grateful for this morning and the opportunity to be part of something new.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” — Psalm 107:1 (NIV)

Captain's Addendum

Bones: “A ribbon cutting, a community celebration, and breakfast with his wife. I'd say the Captain is off to a pretty good start.”

Spock: “The evidence suggests that gratitude is an appropriate response to a successful morning, Doctor.”

Bones: “For once, Spock, I think we're in complete agreement.”

I am grateful for the welcome we've received in Lawrence. Today is another reminder to appreciate the people who make each new chapter meaningful.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Live long and prosper. 🖖