Living in a state of denial for an extended period of time does a person little good. Some times it takes a whack up along side the head to literally jolt one out of denial and into reality.

In three totally separate incidents last week in Rapid City, three very good friends of mine had a chat with me about my weight issue. I mean to tell you, none of these three was easy on me; none of them minced words or beat around the bush in any way.

My first response was OUCH! I cant say it didnt hurt a lot (cuz it did), but after the initial shock and awe, I got my head straight, and I realized how very thankful I am that these three dear people cared enough about me to speak up. I know it could not have been easy for them to tell me what was on their mind, and I know that they only had my best interest at heart. I truly am a blessed man.

Its not ever easy for someone to get real, to reach out, and to be sincere by, as they say, calling a spade a spade. It certainly takes a special quality to be able to be painfully honest with a friend, and say what needs to be said.

As I have indicated, change is taking place. I am taking action, and am already enjoying some major successes. Just saying no to my self is a huge thing. I am drinking lots of water, watching my portions, and am setting up accountability systems. I know it will be a process, but I know I have lots of people to encourage me along the way.

I share all of this with you today, in an effort to encourage you. Maybe you are like me, and know that there is something others have been telling you needs changing in your life. You dont feel so good about it, but you have to admit you have just let some area of your life go too far out of control, and you know they were only call a spade a spade. Take time to thank those that are urging you to change, and then take the action necessary to make that change.

On the other hand, you might be one who is in the position of having to confront someone. You dont want to do it, but you realize now is the time to get your cards on the table and call a spade a spade. Though the truth can, and probably will hurt, telling the truth is the kindest thing you can do for a friend.

In either case, be of courage. Its never too late to do the right thing.

2005 Professional Development Systems All Rights Reserved

Robert Prentice

Robert A. (Bob) Prentice is an entrepreneur, a motivational speaker, a corporate trainer, a business and marketing consultant, an author, and publisher, who began his career 25 years ago.On December 26, 1989, Professional Development Systems was established in Rapid City, South Dakota.

In 1998, Bob moved the business to Wessington, South Dakota, so his family could experience the benefits of living in a rural community. Since the birth of PDS, Bob has worked with literally hundreds of companies and organizations within a 15 state region, delivering highly motivational training sessions in Customer Service, Leadership, Sales, Total Quality Management, Team Building and more. Literally, thousands of people participate in Bob's training seminars each year.

A family man, Bob and Vicki, his wife of 28 years, have enjoyed the privilege of raising three children?two sons and a daughter?to adulthood. They also have an 11 year old daughter. Bob says he plays much more than he works, and when he works he goes to fun! Bob's friends call him Mr. Attitude.