Dear Family,

It’s easy to get frustrated when we aren’t making progress toward our goals. We set big aspirations, visualize the outcomes we want, but then... nothing changes.

The reason? We’re over-indexing on aspirations and outcomes without identifying and implementing the behaviors that actually make them happen.

I’ve been working my way through "Tiny Habits: The Small Changes, That Change Everything" by BJ Fogg, PhD, where he breaks down the science of behavior change. His main point?

Small, consistent actions drive real transformation—not just wishful thinking.

Let’s say you want to strengthen your relationship with your significant other. You’re juggling work, kids, and obligations, and suddenly, quality time has become an afterthought. You know you want to reconnect, but how? Instead of just hoping for more time together, what if you mapped out small behaviors that would lead to that outcome? For example: 

1. Schedule a date night once a month—no excuses.

2. Carve out 20-30 minutes before bed to talk about each other’s day, uninterrupted.

3. Make sure their car is full of gas every week—without being asked.

Suddenly, reconnecting isn’t just an abstract goal—it’s a set of repeatable behaviors that make it happen.

The same applies to your finances. Everyone aspires to be financially free, but financial freedom doesn’t come from just wanting it—it comes from behaviors:

1. Automate your savings so you’re investing in your future without thinking about it.

2. Set aside time each month to review your finances like you would a performance review at work.

3. Get guidance from someone who knows the road ahead so you’re not making it up as you go.

Aspirations give you direction. Outcomes show you what success looks like. But behaviors? Behaviors are what get you there.

So as you step into this next season of life, ask yourself: What are the small, intentional behaviors that will help you get where you want to go?

Make them simple. Make them consistent. Then watch what happens.

From LUX, With Love

Matt