Episode 073: Why This World Champion Dancer Quit To Save His Future Family with Alex Gomez

Summary: I asked Alex to be on my show after hearing his experience in church! He talked about making significant lifestyle changes that would put him on a different track in life. Knowing that change is often a necessity when creating an intentional family culture, I felt like Alex's experience would impact some of you who may be undergoing changes in your family.<br> <br> Alex's story is awesome! He felt compelled to change because he had his future family in mind. When he considered the direction he was going, he couldn't see his life going anywhere if he stayed on the same path. At first, change was hard. He felt awkward. But, with time he was able to feel good about the changes he was making!<br> <br> More than this, Alex learned the importance of having a vision. He and his wife sit down regularly to discuss where they want to be sixty years into the future, and then work their way back. They evaluate where they are on their path, and then they make adjustments as needed.<br> <br> When I asked Alex what legacy means to him, he shared an incredible experience as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. There are many reason members of the Church serve missions. Alex knew it was something he needed to do for his own reasons. But, what he learned from his Mission President has stayed with him and impacted his reason for doing everything in his life.<br> <br> Best Practices<br> <br> Focus on the feeling you want to cultivate in your home. Alex didn't remember particular teachings or activities his parents did that he wanted to replicate, he wanted the feeling he remembers having when growing up in a home where he felt loved, where he could grow, and feel the Spirit.<br> Cultivate a vision that will motivate you to live intentionally. Alex had an epiphany that if he kept living the way he was living as a dancer, he would be stagnant and if he had a family, they would be miserable. He kept the vision of his happy family in his mind throughout the changes he endured. He and his wife evaluate their vision regularly now.<br> Change is gradual. It takes dedication and commitment, and learning from obstacles and failure.<br> Legacy is making an impact on those around you, and on future generations. You'll know you've done well when your children and grandchildren model your values.<br> <br> Resources Referenced:<br> <br> "Now is the Time" Elder Jack N. Gerard, General Conference October 2018<br> Episode O24: Max Weichert - Fostering a Flourishing Environment<br> "Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action" by Simon Sinek (affiliate link)<br> <br> Timestamps:<br> <br> Alex tells his story<br> Alex starts making changes<br> Change doesn't happen overnight<br> How Alex and his wife visualize the course of their lives<br> What Alex's parents did when he was a kid that inspired him to change<br> Don't get distracted by the checklists that detract from the feelings we want to cultivate in our family culture<br> What vision sustained Alex through the challenge of going through his transformation<br> I share a story and quote about legacy<br> Alex shares an analogy about distraction and how it keeps us from living our vision<br> Alex shares an experience that taught him what legacy and success really looks like<br> What legacy means to Alex<br> Conclusion<br> <br> I'd like to hear from you! What stood out to you in this episode? Did you feel inspired to make any changes in your life? Did you evaluate your own legacy, and the impact you make in your sphere of influence? Come tell me about it on Instagram @familyculturepodcast.