Deeds Over Words: Living What You Preach | Your actions define you, not your intentions.

It’s easy to talk about what we want to do. We set goals, share big ideas, and even convince ourselves we’re making progress.

But at the end of the day, words don’t matter—actions do.

You can say you want to get fit, but if you’re drinking Diet Coke and skipping workouts, your actions tell a different story. You can say you value deep work, but if you’re constantly scrolling social media, are you really focused?

You can say you believe in something, but if you never act on it, do you really?

This isn’t just about fitness or productivity—it applies to every part of life.

Virtue Signaling vs. Real Action

We live in an age where it’s easier than ever to talk about our values, but much harder to actually live them.

• Posting about a cause isn’t the same as contributing to it.
• Talking about self-discipline isn’t the same as practicing it.
• Saying you care about health, relationships, or growth isn’t the same as showing up consistently.

As Epictetus said: "Don’t explain your philosophy. Embody it."

Real integrity isn’t about what we say—it’s about what we do when no one is watching.

What I’ve Been Practicing Lately

For the past 30 days, I’ve committed to daily writing and walking at least 10,000 steps. Here’s what’s happened:

? 30 days of writing—building consistency, even when I didn’t feel like it.

? Averaging 15,000 steps per day—about 11 km daily.

? Lost 4.5 kg in 30 days and 8.7 kg in the last quarter—not because I talked about fitness, but because I acted on it.

The biggest lesson?

Action compounds.

Small daily habits create real change—not grand statements or momentary motivation.

Acting on Your Values

If you believe in something, show it through action.

Here’s how to start:

1?? Audit Yourself—Are your daily actions aligned with what you say you value?

2?? Start Small—Instead of making big proclamations, commit to a tiny habit that proves your intent.

3?? Track Your Progress—What gets measured improves. Focus on consistency over perfection.

4?? Let Your Actions Speak—Don’t announce everything. Just do the work.

As James Clear puts it:

Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become.

Your Turn

What’s one area where you want to shift from words to action?

?? Reply to this email or comment below—I’d love to hear how you’re turning your values into real habits.

P.S. If you’re ready to reflect on and share your own journey, ?? learn how to start your own newsletter here: startyournewsletter.today

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https://dailyreflections.beehiiv.com/p/deeds-over-words-living-what-you-preach