All posts by steven

Can We Change Our Default Disposition?

Faith, General

We all have a default disposition, that “go-to” mood or attitude we tend to carry with us without much thought. For me, I like to think my default is one of peace and relaxation. After all, who doesn’t want to be the peaceful person who just lets things roll off their back, right? But the truth is, I can be stressed, negative, and demanding, and not always in the most graceful ways. It’s like I have this emotional rollercoaster that starts with a dip in patience and ends with a “what the heck is going on?!” moment.

I was listening to a sermon recently, and Pastor Jason asked a profound question that hit me hard: “What’s your default?” And if you’re like me, that question can make you pause. Because if your default is a bit less than desirable, you have to ask yourself: Can it be changed?

Can Our Default Be Changed?

The short answer is: yes, but it’s not going to be as easy as clicking a button. Changing your default is a process. It takes awareness, intention, and a whole lot of patience. And let’s be honest, that’s the tough part.

First, you have to become aware of what your default is. I mean, really aware. And trust me, this is no easy feat. It’s hard to look in the mirror and realize that your default reaction might not be the most flattering. You know, the one where you snap when you shouldn’t, or get stressed over things that aren’t worth stressing about? Yeah, that one.

“You can’t change what you are not willing to see.” – Steven Hedgecoth (I quoted myself, lol)

Ugh. That’s a tough truth. It’s easier to point out other people’s flaws than our own, but growth happens when we’re willing to look at ourselves honestly—even the parts we don’t like.

The Power of Being Intentional

Once you see it, the next step is being intentional about changing it. Now, this is where the magic (and the hard work) happens. It’s not about trying to be someone else. It’s about being your true self and trying something different. Intentionality means making a conscious choice to choose a different reaction. It means not just “reacting” to situations but deciding how you want to respond.

The key here is baby steps. You don’t have to change everything overnight. Just a small tweak in how you handle one situation can lead to a significant shift over time. It’s the little wins that build up and make a bigger difference.

And remember, it’s going to take time. Be patient with yourself. Just because you didn’t respond perfectly today doesn’t mean you won’t get better tomorrow. It’s about progress, not perfection.

We Are New Creations in Christ

The great news is, we don’t have to stay stuck in our defaults. Scripture reminds us that through Christ, we are new creations, and that transformation is possible:

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)

In Christ, we have the power to transform our habits, attitudes, and reactions. With God’s help, we can let go of old patterns and embrace the new life He offers.

Final Thoughts: Start Small, Think Big

If you don’t like your default, start with awareness. Own it, then slowly work to change it by being intentional. And most importantly—don’t expect perfection. Change takes time, but with patience, we can slowly rewrite our default disposition into one that reflects the best version of ourselves.

So, what’s your default? And are you ready to do the work it takes to change it? Let me know in the comments!

The Three Types of People Who Shape Our Lives

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Dreamers, Doers, and Stagnators

We all have dreams. Whether it’s a big career goal, a life-changing personal transformation, or a world-altering vision (like finally finding the perfect parking spot at Walmart), dreams are the fuel that drives us forward. However, not everyone is equally equipped to take action on these dreams. In fact, people tend to fall into three distinct categories: dreamers, doers, and stagnators. Understanding the strengths and challenges of each type can help us better navigate our personal journeys—and figure out how to stop binge-watching Netflix when we should be working on our goals.

Dreamers: Visionaries Who See the End Result

Dreamers are the visionaries of the world. They’re the ones who can see the big picture before anyone else does. Dreamers often live in the future, imagining what could be, and their minds are filled with endless possibilities—like starting a unicorn sanctuary or inventing a device that automatically folds laundry. While we may not all be aiming for unicorns (though, if you’re out there, let me know), dreamers have big ideas that push the boundaries of what’s possible.

“We are limited, not by our abilities, but by our vision.” – Anonymous

But here’s the catch—dreams are just the starting point. Dreamers need wisdom on how and when to share their dreams. Not every idea should be broadcast to the world immediately. Not everyone will get it—there’s a reason why some people said Thomas Edison was “wasting his time” before the light bulb invention became a game-changer. Dreamers need to find the right people to encourage their vision and help them take the first steps toward making their dreams a reality.

Every dreamer needs a doer. And this is where the doers step in.

Doers: The Builders Who See the Path

Doers are the ones who bring ideas to life. While dreamers envision the end result (hello, unicorn sanctuary), doers see the path to get there. Doers are the ones who put in the effort, take action, and focus on the practicalities. They love checking things off their to-do list and are often the ones leading the charge. Without doers, we’d still be stuck in the planning phase, with dreams floating around in the ether like that “one day” trip to the Grand Canyon we keep talking about.

“Action is the foundational key to all success.” – Pablo Picasso

Doers play a crucial role in helping dreamers transform their visions into concrete accomplishments. Every dreamer needs a doer to help them take action, break down the work, and actually do something. And every doer needs a dreamer to remind them why they’re working so hard. Without a dreamer, a doer might just end up mowing the lawn for the 12th time this week… which, hey, I’m not saying it’s a bad thing, but we could do with a bit more vision.

Stagnators: The Ones Who Are Stuck

And then we have the stagnators. Ah, the stagnators. These are the people who are stuck in a rut, unable to move forward, or paralyzed by fear or indecision. It’s like they’re in quicksand—every time they try to make progress, they just sink further. Unlike dreamers, they don’t have grand visions, and unlike doers, they don’t take action. Stagnators often find themselves in a state of inaction, whether out of fear, uncertainty, or sheer “Netflix and chill” mentality.

“Procrastination is the art of keeping up with yesterday.” – Don Marquis

Stagnators need a swift kickstart. A little push from a doer can get them moving again. Whether it’s a nudge to finally sign up for that marathon you’ve been talking about for years or help cleaning out the garage (yes, I’m looking at you), stagnators need a helping hand to get back on track. If you’re a stagnator, it’s time to stop binge-watching “how-to” videos on YouTube and actually try one of those tips yourself!

Stagnators need a doer to help them get unstuck. It could be something as simple as organizing a small task or setting a mini-goal. Once they start moving, it’s much easier for them to keep going. Sometimes, all it takes is someone else to show them the way.

Conclusion: We All Play a Role

The world needs all three types of people—dreamers, doers, and even stagnators—because each plays an essential role in shaping our lives and communities. Dreamers provide the vision, doers make it happen, and stagnators… well, they remind us not to get too comfortable sitting on the couch.

If you’re a dreamer, surround yourself with doers who can help you take action. If you’re a doer, connect with dreamers who can remind you of the bigger picture. And if you find yourself stuck as a stagnator, don’t hesitate to reach out to someone who can help you get back on your feet.

Dream big. Take action. And don’t let anything stop you from reaching your full potential.

“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” – Robert Collier

So whether you’re dreaming, doing, or stuck, remember this: there’s always a path forward. And sometimes, that path is just a phone call away.

Books to Inspire Action and Overcome Stagnation:

  1. “The 5 Second Rule” by Mel Robbins – A simple, practical way to overcome procrastination and take action, fast.
  2. “Atomic Habits” by James Clear – A brilliant guide on how small, consistent actions lead to big results. (personal favorite) ******
  3. “Start with Why” by Simon Sinek – For dreamers and doers alike, understanding the “why” behind what you do will keep you focused and motivated.
  4. “Do the Work” by Steven Pressfield – A call to action for those struggling with resistance and procrastination.

Pick up a book, take action, and stop making excuses. You’ve got dreams to make real!

Lean On Me (And Maybe a Few Others, Too)

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Once upon a time, in a world where neighbors actually knew each other’s names and didn’t just recognize them from Amazon package labels, people leaned on their communities. Whether it was borrowing a cup of sugar (or a lawnmower) or getting advice from someone who had “been there, done that,” community was the secret sauce of success and well-being.

Nowadays, we have Wi-Fi, social media, and enough digital connections to make a robot blush—but somehow, we’re lonelier than ever. That’s why we need to get back to what actually works: real community.

I once heard someone say, “You’ll never be your best self by yourself.” And honestly, they nailed it. So, let’s talk about why community matters and how to build one that actually makes life better.

1. You Need Community. (Yes, Even You, Lone Ranger.)

A strong community is like a good cup of coffee—warm, energizing, and way better when shared. Whether it’s a church, a gym, a book club, your work family, or just a group of people who share the same oddly specific hobby (synchronized dog walking, anyone?), you need people around you.

Reality check: No community is perfect. There will be drama, strong opinions, and probably someone who always forgets to Venmo you back. But a good community? It’s worth its weight in gold.

2. Can’t Find a Community? Build One!

If you’re struggling to find your people, congratulations! You’ve just been elected the founder of a brand-new community. (No pressure.) It could start with a coffee meetup, a Facebook group, or just inviting a couple of friends over for a game night. Small sparks create big fires.

3. Invest In Your Community.

Great communities don’t just happen—they’re built. And that takes time, patience, and showing up (even when Netflix is calling your name).

Here’s the secret: The best communities are not built on what you get but on what you give. Be the one who encourages, checks in, and brings extra snacks. Give your time, energy, and resources, and watch how it comes back tenfold.

4. Ditch the Perfection Act. (We See Through It Anyway.)

Listen, nobody relates to perfection. If you’ve built an imaginary Instagram-filtered wall around your life, it’s time to tear that thing down. Real relationships grow in honesty, not in perfectly curated highlight reels. Be real, be vulnerable, and let people in. You’ll be surprised how much stronger your community becomes when you stop pretending you have it all together. (Spoiler alert: none of us do.)

5. Conflict Happens. Handle It Like a Pro.

Every community—no matter how amazing—will have conflict. That’s just humans being human. But here’s a pro tip: Conflict gets worse when you ignore it and shrinks when you address it with humility.

Instead of avoiding it, bring it to the table. Literally. Grab coffee, hash it out, and prioritize the relationship over the argument. Healthy communities aren’t built on perfect agreement—they’re built on people willing to work through their differences.

Let’s Build Something That Lasts.

Bottom line? We are better together. We were designed for community—created to lift each other up, challenge each other, and be there when life gets hard.

So, let’s embrace the messiness of real relationships.
Let’s invest in the people around us.
Let’s choose community over isolation.

Because at the end of the day, success isn’t about going solo—it’s about who you’re walking with.

So, who’s in?

What Are You Looking For?

General

What Are You Looking For?

(3 minutes read time)

Ever feel like your brain has a built-in negativity GPS, rerouting you straight to the worst-case scenario? Yeah, same. I’m not a neuroscientist, but I’m pretty sure our minds have a “doom-scroll” mode that kicks in when we’re not paying attention. Sometimes it feels like my brain is throwing a pity party, complete with flashing neon signs that say “Here’s Everything That’s Wrong!” Someone hit the reset button already!

But here’s the good news: We’re not helpless victims of our mental default settings. No one handed us a user manual for life that says, “Sorry, you’re stuck in negative mode forever.” We have the power to choose what we focus on—and that choice can change everything.

It’s simple, really. You find what you’re looking for. If you’re scanning the horizon for problems, guess what? You’ll spot every single one. But if you look for the good, the beautiful, and the uplifting? You’ll start seeing those, too.

Think of it like treasure hunting. If you head to the beach with a metal detector, you’re not shocked when you find a few bottle caps and rusty nails—but you keep looking because you’re hoping for the gold. Life’s a lot like that: focus on the gold, not the garbage.

So, what’s your treasure? For me, it’s the simple joys. Like a fresh cup of home-brewed coffee filling the kitchen with its comforting aroma. Or stepping outside, feeling the breeze on my face, and hearing the rhythm of nature over my own thoughts.

It’s the quiet solitude of early mornings, when the world hasn’t quite woken up yet, giving me space to breathe and reset. It’s the satisfaction of moving my body through a good workout or the connection I feel in the laughter and love of my family. Those are my treasures—the gold I choose to look for.

What Should You Look For?

Here are a few things worth keeping your eyes open for:

  • Look for beauty – It’s everywhere. Sunsets, trees, a perfectly toasted piece of bread. Yes, even bread.
  • Look for connection – That stranger who held the door, the friend who texted, “Thinking of you,” or the waiter who nailed the service.
  • Look for challenge – Growth comes through resistance. Embrace the hard stuff; it’s where your story gets interesting.
  • Look for love – Not just romantic love, but kindness, generosity, and those small acts of humanity that make life rich.

We’re not just passengers in someone else’s story. We’re authors of our own, and let me tell you—there’s a lot of beauty waiting to be written into your chapters.

What’s Your Treasure?

So next time you’re walking through the moments of your day, ask yourself—what am I looking for? Because the answer will determine what you find.

Look for the gold. Skip the garbage. And enjoy the beauty of your story.

Rooted to Rise: Why We Need a Trellis for Our Faith

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By Steven Hedgecoth. – 4 minutes read time

Have you ever visited a vineyard and noticed how the grapevines don’t just sprawl across the ground? Instead, they’re lifted up by a structure—commonly called a trellis—so they can Have you ever visited a vineyard and noticed how the grapevines don’t just sprawl across the ground? Instead, they’re carefully lifted by a structure—commonly called a trellis—so they can flourish in the sunlight, stay healthy, and produce high-quality fruit. Without this trellis, the vines would get tangled on the ground and bear damaged or diseased grapes. It’s no different for us spiritually. Just as vines need a structure to help them thrive, we need spiritual practices and relationships that support our growth.

What Happens When a Vine Doesn’t Have a Trellis?

  • Lack of Direction: Vines lying on the ground can’t grow upward to receive proper light and airflow, stunting their potential.
  • Susceptibility to Disease and Pests: Fruit and leaves that remain on damp soil are more likely to rot and become infested.
  • Reduced Fruit Quality: Grapes that develop on the ground often become bruised or spoiled, diminishing both yield and taste.
  • Hindered Harvest: Workers must sift through tangled vines on the ground, making it difficult to harvest or prune effectively.

Without a trellis, a vineyard cannot produce abundant or healthy fruit. Likewise, without intentional structures that lift our spiritual life, we risk “tangling” ourselves in unhealthy habits, distractions, or complacency.

Why Fruit Matters

Jesus uses vineyard imagery to explain our spiritual lives. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit…” (John 15:5). That fruit is the tangible evidence of a vibrant relationship with Christ—manifested as kindness, generosity, perseverance, and love. It’s this visible transformation of character that makes others see God’s goodness and reality at work in us.

Yet fruit isn’t produced automatically; it requires careful, intentional support. That’s where the spiritual trellis comes in.

What Is a Spiritual Trellis?

A spiritual trellis is the system of practices, disciplines, and relationships that keep us aligned with God’s heart and ways. A few examples include:

  1. Prayer and Devotion
    • Setting aside daily time to speak with God and immerse yourself in His Word.
    • Keeps you focused on Christ, just as vines cling to the trellis for stability.
  2. Scripture Engagement
    • Reading or studying the Bible isn’t a ritual to check off; it’s discovering God’s character and letting truth shape your mind and behavior.
  3. Community and Accountability
    • We need trusted friends or a small group who encourage us, challenge us, and help keep our spiritual lives healthy.
  4. Service and Outreach
    • Fruit isn’t for the vine’s own consumption. Using your gifts and time to bless others is where real growth blossoms.
  5. Reflection and Pruning
    • Regularly asking God to remove unhealthy habits or attitudes. Pruning is uncomfortable but essential for producing vibrant fruit.

Rooted to Rise

The ultimate goal isn’t just to grow a little; it’s to be Rooted to Rise. Deep roots in Christ keep us steady, and a solid trellis of spiritual disciplines helps us rise above life’s pitfalls. When our faith is well-supported, we become people of substance—able to stand firm in trials and bear fruit that refreshes others.

Imagine the difference a well-built trellis could make in your daily life. Instead of letting discouragement or busyness choke your faith, you’re lifted up toward God’s presence each day. Over time, you’ll see greater joy, stability, and a newfound capacity to love and serve others.

A Call to Action

  1. Build Your Trellis
    • Identify one or two key supports you can put into action this week (e.g., set a dedicated prayer time, join a small group, etc.).
    • Don’t settle for haphazard growth; let God’s Word and community shape you intentionally.
  2. Refuse to Remain on the Ground
    • When you sense anxiety, negativity, or spiritual apathy creeping in, remember this is your chance to rise above.
    • Lean on the disciplines that keep you lifted: prayer, Scripture, fellowship, and service.

Rooted to Rise isn’t just a catchy phrase. It’s a way of life—one where you build a spiritual trellis of solid practices, cling to Jesus as your source, and bear fruit that blesses everyone around you. May you grow deeper, stand taller, and see your life flourish for God’s glory.

If you have questions or want to learn more about establishing a spiritual trellis, reach out to us or consider visiting a local church community where you can connect with others on this journey.

God is Good?

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God is still good, even when it’s hard to hold on to that truth.

In this season, I’m learning a few things about grief, pain, and God’s presence in the midst of it all:

✨ Presence over perfection – Sometimes all we can do is show up, broken and raw. God meets us there, not in our perfection, but in our presence.

✨ Authenticity over prosperity – Life’s true richness is found in being real, especially when we’re hurting. God honors our honesty, not just our success.

✨ Grief is evidence of our capacity to love deeply – This pain we feel is a reminder of the love we carry. Loss hurts because love runs deep.

✨ Isolation isn’t the answer – It’s tempting to retreat, but connection with others is the way forward, even in the darkest times.

✨ Do it with pain – Healing doesn’t erase the pain. But even through the ache, we keep going, finding strength and meaning in each step.

Through all of it, I’m reminded that God’s goodness isn’t dependent on our circumstances. He’s good in our joy and in our grief. And even here, I believe that.

“Unlock Your Best Life: 5 Must-Do’s Before Life-Changing Decisions”

Faith, Family, Fitness, General

We all face choices daily, from what to wear or eat to more profound decisions that can alter the course of our lives. Let’s talk about those big life decisions, the ones that demand more than a flip of a coin.

Life decisions are the game-changers, choices that have the power to shape the trajectory of your existence. Before we dive in, it’s worth mentioning that life circumstances, like the curveballs of death or sickness, often come uninvited – we’ll save that discussion for another time.

Your choices shape your destiny. 🌟 #LifeDecisions #EmpowerYourChoice" Share on X
  1. Prayer & Spiritual Guidance: Pause for prayer or seek spiritual guidance. Connecting with your inner self and seeking divine insight can provide peace as you navigate uncharted waters. It’s a moment to find clarity amid the uncertainties.
  2. Core Values Check: Reflect on your core values. What truly matters to you in life? Are your choices in alignment with these values? Understanding your fundamental principles can be a compass guiding you through tough decisions.
  3. Outcome Investigation: Count the cost. Delve into the potential outcomes of your decision, weighing both the positive and negative aspects. How might it impact not just your life but your community? This foresight helps you make an informed decision.
  4. Emotional State Assessment: Take a moment to assess your emotional state. Is fear, stress, or impulse driving your decision? Ensure you’re in a calm and rational mindset before taking the plunge.
  5. Talk it Over: Don’t go it alone. Reach out to trusted friends or family members. Discussing your decision with others can provide valuable insights and emotional support. Different perspectives might unveil aspects you hadn’t considered.

And then, when you’ve done the groundwork, make your decision. Own it. Whether you decide to take the leap or stay put, remember, the power lies in your choice to make it right for you. It’s your journey, after all.

"In the realm of life decisions, emotions can be the navigator or the storm. Take a moment, assess, talk it over with loved ones, and then choose your course wisely. ⚖️ #DecisionMaking #EmotionalIntelligence" Share on X

Transformative Leadership

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Embrace Inward-Out approaches for excellence!

In the heart of my yard stands a slender, 40ft tree. Its branches are not extravagant, gracing the sky with only a few, yet its significance runs deep. This unassuming tree holds a remarkable secret: its strength emanates from within.

This truth mirrors the essence of leadership. Our resilience should bloom from the depths of our being, a strength cultivated within and radiating outward. In the hushed moments, we find solace in our inner bond with God, a wellspring of strength forged in the battles hidden from plain sight. As leaders, nurturing our souls becomes paramount. Just as our core gains vigor, its influence unfurls to the world beyond.

Often, we invest faith in our appearance, talents, and charisma, neglecting that they stand on the foundation of our core. Yet, a robust core births pure functionality. 

There existed another tree by my office—a picture of vitality. Adorned in leaves, it thrived. Then, a storm struck, toppling it from its pedestal. Amidst the clearing, a revelation emerged: the heart of the tree was rotten.

Scripture reminds us, “They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.” (Psalms 1:3) Just as these trees flourish by the river, so do leaders prosper when anchored within, ready to weather any storm.

Let’s remember, it’s from the center that authenticity flows. True leadership starts within, where roots intertwine with character, values, and conviction. When nurtured, this inner strength manifests in a life of purpose, impact, and lasting legacy.

“Finding the Silver Lining: Overcoming Pessimism and Embracing Hope”

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“Pessimism: because why settle for just being unhappy when you can be consistently disappointed by everything? #Sarcasm #Pessimism”


Someone recently asked me if I thought I was more optimistic or pessimistic. Of course, I proudly said, “I’m optimistic!” This got me thinking about the truth of pessimism.


IT’S FREAKING EASY TO BE PESSIMISTIC! Yes, I was yelling… at the HALF-EMPTY cup! The entire culture sets us up to look for the negative. It may just be me, but a negative outlook is a default. Oh wait, that isn’t very optimistic!


So how do we see the silver lining to the DARK CLOUD THAT STAYS OVER MY HEAD? Why Am I yelling? Oh boy!

Heres a few thoughts to overcome pessimism and embrace hope!

  1. Practice gratitude: Make a habit of focusing on the people and things you are thankful for and expressing gratitude for them.
  2. Reframe negative thoughts: When you have a negative thought, challenge it by looking for evidence that supports a more positive perspective.
  3. Surround yourself with positivity: Seek out people, activities, and environments that uplift you and bring you joy.
  4. Focus on solutions, not problems: Instead of dwelling on what’s wrong, concentrate on finding solutions to problems.
  5. Engage in self-care: Take care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being through activities like exercise, meditation, and hobbies.

“You cannot control what happens to you in life, but you can control your attitude towards it.” – Unknown

Are you more optimistic or pessimistic? Thoughts?

Are you Inspired?

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Inspiration! 

Most people, when encountered with something great someone else has built, walk away inspired. 

Honest people say maybe I can do it too. 

And they walk away feeling encouraged. 

But watch out! 

Some look at what you have built and say I want it. 

I want what you have, And I will do whatever it takes to take it away from you!

They don’t want to do the hard work of building. They want to reap your rewards.  

When my reality is your dream how do you respond? 

When my dream is your reality, I will honor you and be inspired.  

Who inspires you?