Changing Priorities

Strategies and Insights for Success

Life isn’t a smooth road—challenges, setbacks, and adversities are inevitable. Success requires that we know how to pivot, adapt, and persevere when those challenges arise. Having spent 26 years in prison, I learned that we all have the power to transform our circumstances through mindset shifts, deliberate planning, and intentional action.

This article walks you through tangible strategies and real-life insights to help you reshape your priorities, build resilience, and achieve success—regardless of where you're starting. By the end, you’ll have actionable tools to take control of your future and start working toward a life of meaning and stability.
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Key Concepts

1. Mindset Shift

Success begins in the mind. Your perspective—how you interpret and respond to the challenges you face—is often the difference between stagnation and growth.

• Example: When I first entered prison, I had a choice. I could succumb to despair, focusing on the loss of freedom and opportunity, or I could redefine my path, focusing instead on what I could control. I chose the latter.
• Takeaway: Don’t wait for external change. Take ownership of your reality and shift focus to what you can influence.

2. Strategic Planning

Success doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of clear, actionable plans based on your goals.

• Example: While incarcerated, I set three key objectives for myself—earn academic degrees, write books that could contribute to society, and build a network of like-minded individuals.
• Takeaway: Define your long-term vision, identify the steps needed to get there, and track progress consistently.

3. Daily Execution

Grand visions are achieved through small, consistent steps. It’s the everyday habits that build long-term success.

• Example: Each day, I committed to writing, studying, and reaching out to potential mentors, no matter how monotonous it seemed at times.
• Takeaway: Focus on what you can do today to stay on track toward your goals.

4. Accountability

Without accountability, progress becomes aimless. It’s important to measure your efforts and evaluate your results over time.

• Example: I kept a detailed journal throughout my sentence, documenting milestones, challenges, and reflections. That record not only kept me accountable but also served as proof of my transformation.
• Takeaway: Regularly check in with your goals. Adjust your actions if needed and celebrate small wins along the way.

5. Community and Connections

We rarely succeed alone. Building a network of supportive individuals can amplify your growth and provide valuable accountability.

• Takeaway: Surround yourself with positive influences who encourage your development.

Strategies for Shifting Priorities

1. Start with Self-Reflection

Ask yourself tough questions. What truly matters to you? What are you striving for, and is your current lifestyle aligned with those goals?

• Action Step: Take time to journal your thoughts or create a vision board. This exercise will help clarify your priorities and illuminate your path forward.

2. Set SMART Goals

Design goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Ambitions are great, but without structure, they can remain out of reach.

• Example: Instead of saying, “I want to make more money,” reframe it as, “I will increase my income by 20% in the next six months by taking on freelance projects.”

3. Build Habits That Support Your Priorities

Develop daily routines that align with your goals. Whether it’s waking up early to exercise, dedicating an hour a day to learning a new skill, or actively reaching out to mentors, these habits compound over time.

• Example: I used evenings in my cell as dedicated learning time. With discipline and consistency, these hours amounted to earning multiple degrees.

4. Leverage Resources

Don’t hesitate to seek help. Whether it’s self-help books, online courses, or mentorship programs, there are countless tools available to guide you in refining your priorities.

• Tip: If you feel directionless, platforms like Prison Professors offer resources and mentorship suitable for anyone building from adversity.

5. Track and Adjust Your Course

Life happens, and priorities can evolve. That’s okay. What matters is recognizing when you need to adjust your strategy and staying committed to your overarching goals.

• Action Step: Set monthly check-ins to evaluate your progress. Are your daily actions still aligned with what you value most?

6. Grace Over Perfection

Finally, remember that growth is never linear. There will be setbacks, failures, and days where motivation feels elusive. Extend grace to yourself. What counts is not perfection but persistence.

• Reminder: Every small step forward is progress. Celebrate it.

Overcoming Challenges

Challenges are inevitable, but you don’t have to be defined by them. Common obstacles like self-doubt, fear of failure, and lack of resources often sabotage progress. Overcoming them starts with mindset and accountability.

• Strategy: For self-doubt, practice affirmations and surround yourself with positive influences. If resources are limited, get creative by leveraging free tools like online courses or public libraries.
• Key Insight: Remember, every problem has a solution if you approach it strategically. Start small, think big, and keep moving forward.

A Final Thought

Strategic thinking, consistent action, and a resilient mindset are the building blocks for turning adversity into opportunity. No matter where you are in life, it’s never too late to shift your priorities and take control of your future. The path is not easy, but the rewards are worth it.

Success isn’t accidental—it’s intentional. What will you choose today to move closer to your vision?

Self-Directed Question

How can you use today to assess your current priorities and start aligning them with the future you envision?

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