Sir Issac Newton was one smart cookie. But then, you didn't need me to tell you that.

Newton observed that an object in motion tended to stay in motion. Similarly, an object at rest will stay at rest, unless forces are impressed on it (inertia). Further, Newton concluded that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.

Arguably, everything we do in this life due to inertia ...

As we age, we put ourselves into routines. Waking up at the same time every day, letting the dog out, eating our Wheaties and heading off to work, only to run through another scenario when we get home.

Routines like this get set in stone after awhile. Along with some other factors, inertia is to blame. Our long-term goals usually have a lot to do with what we do with who, when and where.

The forces impressed on us can include the financial (make money to secure your future, decrease your debt, etc.), social (family and friends' wants and needs) as well as personal (your goals, hobbies or endeavors).

So if you're so inclined (or reclined), you have to overcome inertia (i.e., holding down the couch) to gain the inertia needed to get up and retain that movement to accomplish a task. It can be a vicious circle, as the task will no doubt leave you pooped and the couch will act like a magnet and pull you back down eventually, leading to Newton's law of gravity.

Bosses use inertia (hopefully spiritual or emotional but not physical force) to help us attain our (and/or the company's) goals.

What I guess I'm getting at is that Newton gave us a word that can be used for motion and static status. The forces at work tend to control us more than most of us will ever know, or want to know.

So the next time you think you can outsmart Newton, just remember - he's got you going or staying. And you probably won't need an apple to fall on your head to convince you of that.

You can attempt to reach Jerry Hitchcock at 664-8176, Ext. 2017, or via email at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter at HitchTheWriter.