“It is in your moments of decision that your destiny is shaped.” — Anthony Robbins

Each moment in life carries the power to change your destiny.

Let me tell you a story.

More than half a century ago, a singing group named the Shirelles had formed. One day their producer came to them and told them they needed a new song.

Shirley Owens, after whom the group had been named, said, “When?” The producer replied, “Tonight.” Shirley answered, “Well, I guess tonight’s the night.”

Sure enough, work began on the song that night, and by the next day it was ready for recording. You can hear “Tonight’s the Night” here.

Just as it took only one moment of inspiration to give birth to that song, it can take only one instant to change your life and your destiny.

It takes only one moment to decide to break a bad habit and start a good one.

It takes only one moment to decide on a goal.

It takes only one moment to choose between action and inaction.

Every time you see an Olympian on the medal stand, you know they faced a series of important moments on the road to the victory:

Do I get up and practice or do I stay in bed?

Do I go through the motions or do I practice all out?

The more often you choose the right answer in these moments, the more successful you will be.

Coach Tully’s Extra Point: The city of Passaic, N.J., named part of a street after the Shirelles in 2008. Here’s the story.