Through the years, I have noticed that when someone goes through a significant life change successfully, they immediately want to help other people do the same thing. 

They lose weight, and now they want to help others do the same.  A couple rebuilds their marriage, and they feel closer than ever, so they want to help other struggling couples.  Their children are successful in school, and they want to tell other parents their secrets. 

The real issue that is often overlooked is the need for long-term change.  For example, last year I knew three people who lost weight.  Each one was proud of their accomplishment and was advising other people.  Unfortunately, all three of them I have seen recently and have become a statistic.  The numbers tell us that people who lose weight usually gain it all back plus twenty percent more.  Yep, if you are not careful, your excellent weight loss can make you heavier in the long term. 

I want to know about people who have made life changes and where they are in one year, five years, ten years, or longer? 

The next time you want to improve your life in any way, the best place to get help is not your friend who recently overcame an obstacle. Instead, seek the wisdom of people who made changes years ago and have maintained their lifestyles.  Their changes may have been forgotten with time, but their knowledge might give you true victory. 

Short-term changes are inspiring but have little value over a lifetime.  Long-term changes are more complex but are well worth the extra effort for both today and tomorrow.