One Decision Away: How a Single Choice Changed Everything with David Atkins
- Tosca DiMatteo
- Aug 12
- 3 min read
What decision are you putting off?
We all get stuck. Whether it’s in our careers, relationships, or routines, it’s easy to drift into autopilot. On the The Unlock Lab podcast, I had a powerful conversation with David Atkins, retired New York State Police Captain, entrepreneur, inspirational speaker, and author, who believes we’re always just one decision away from rewriting our stories. David’s story is proof that transformation starts not with a to-do list, but with a single, courageous choice.
“If you are willing, there’s something in your life right now... If you make that one decision today, don’t worry about three weeks, three months, three years from now. Life will reveal to you what comes next if you’re willing to make that one pressing decision.” - David Atkins
The Night Everything Changed
David’s journey is both relatable and remarkable. For years, he and his wife were thriving on paper: two established careers, a growing family, and a drive to be the best. But beneath the surface, they were six figures in debt, burned out, and drifting apart. They realized that life as they knew it wasn’t working.
The turning point came during a late night, heart to heart conversation at a time when honesty could finally breathe. David admitted the status quo was unsustainable, and something needed to change. To his relief, his wife agreed. David shared how choosing the right time for a hard conversation, away from the chaos of daily life, allowed them both to really hear each other. Instead of reacting in the heat of an argument, they took a beat, prioritized calm, and fostered genuine connection.
By choosing to act, even through fear and self-doubt, David and his wife found the clarity they needed to move forward. He explained that sometimes, the very discomfort or nerves we feel about a conversation is actually the sign that we’re on the edge of necessary growth.
From Overwhelm to Action
Their first step was surprisingly simple: prioritize health. As former athletes, they knew exercise could offer more than fitness, it could rebuild energy, connection, and confidence. Committing to early morning workouts together gave them a shared goal and a renewed sense of purpose. Rather than waiting for the “perfect moment,” they used what they had and got to work.
This choice wasn’t just about physical health. It was a statement that they were taking back control, together. And it was the foundation for deeper changes financial, relational, emotional, that followed.
Daily Discipline Builds Momentum
Transformation isn’t a one-time act, it’s renewed each day. David emphasizes the need for daily habits, reading, exercise, self-reflection, to maintain mindset and focus, especially when obstacles arise. He talked about how even now, with all his public speaking, he never underestimates the need for internal work: practicing gratitude, tuning out inner critics, and paying attention to his own gut instincts.
He also acknowledged setbacks, whether criticism from close friends and family or an unexpected business closure. Facing these detours with resilience and faith not only built character, but rerouted him towards even better opportunities.
How You Can Put “One Decision Away” Into Practice
Here’s how you can make this philosophy work in your life:
Identify your pressing decision: What’s the one thing that’s nagging at you? It may not be obvious, but it is likely sitting just beneath the surface, showing up as frustration, restlessness, or overwhelm.
Choose the right moment for tough talks: Find calm and space, away from the chaos, for genuine connection and honest conversation.
Start with what you have: Don’t wait for perfect conditions. Your current skills, energy, and support system are enough for a first step.
Lean into discomfort: Real growth rarely feels comfortable at first. David believes those butterflies are a sign you’re headed in the right direction.
Practice daily discipline: Small, consistent actions build long-term transformation. David’s own routine includes morning self-care and avoiding social media distractions, so he stays proactive rather than reactive.
Why This Matters for You and Those You Love
David’s journey shows transformation isn’t reserved for the lucky or special, it’s within reach for anyone willing to get honest, act thoughtfully, and stay committed. Whether you’re seeking more fulfilling work, deeper relationships, or simply want to feel less stuck, your trajectory can change with just one intentional choice.
This episode is for everyone who’s tired of drifting and ready to move, one real decision at a time.
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Ready for the full conversation and pearls of wisdom? Tune in to Episode 65 of The Unlock Lab for David’s actionable steps, unfiltered stories, and “One Decision Away Philosophy.”
Connect with David Atkins:
David's Books:
The Leveled Up Life | The One Decision Away Philosophy
This episode was sponsored by Human Design by Holly
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