Falling in Love with the Fight: Choosing Your Fitness Struggle

Hey Fit Fam!

We all have dreams. A sculpted physique, boundless energy, a healthier, happier life. But often, we get caught up in the result – the Instagram-worthy transformation, the number on the scale, the admiring glances. We forget about the process.

Recently, I’ve been diving into Mark Manson’s “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck,” and one concept really hit home: “What pain do you want in your life? What are you willing to struggle for?”

Manson argues that we often chase the shiny reward without truly embracing the grit required to get there. We want the victory, but not the fight. We want the peak, but not the climb.

In fitness, this translates directly. We want the amazing physique, but are we truly in love with the daily grind? Are we willing to embrace the struggle?

The Reality Check: Are You in Love with the Process or Just the Result?

Let’s get real. Achieving your fitness goals isn’t about magic pills or quick fixes. It’s about:

• Consistent Training: That means showing up even when you don’t feel like it. It’s pushing through those last few reps, even when your muscles are screaming. It’s understanding that soreness is part of the journey.

• Disciplined Nutrition: Saying no to that extra slice of pizza, meal prepping on a Sunday afternoon, and making conscious choices about what fuels your body. It’s knowing that sometimes, cravings will test you, and that’s okay.

• Mental Fortitude: Dealing with plateaus, setbacks, and the inevitable moments of doubt. It’s about learning to celebrate small victories and staying focused on the long game.

  
  

Choosing Your Struggle: What Pain Are You Willing to Embrace?

Manson reminds us that “the solution lies in the acceptance and active engagement of that negative experience, not the avoidance of it, not the salvation from it.”

So, ask yourself:

• Are you willing to embrace the burning sensation in your muscles during a tough workout?

• Are you willing to feel the slight discomfort of hunger as you adjust to a healthier diet?

• Are you willing to feel the mental strain of staying consistent when life gets hectic?

If the answer is yes, then you’re on the right track. If not, it’s time to re-evaluate.

Falling in Love with the Fight:

The key is to shift your mindset. Instead of dreading the struggle, learn to appreciate it.

• Find Joy in the Challenge: Celebrate the small victories. Enjoy the feeling of pushing your limits.

• Embrace the Process: Focus on the daily habits that lead to your goals, not just the end result.

• Recognize the Growth: Understand that every workout, every healthy meal, every moment of discipline is making you stronger, both physically and mentally.

  
  

Practical Tips for Embracing the Struggle:

• Set realistic, process-oriented goals: Instead of “lose 20 pounds,” aim for “workout 4 times a week” or “meal prep every Sunday.”

• Find a workout you genuinely enjoy: If you hate running, don’t force yourself to run. Explore different activities until you find something that makes you excited to move.

• Build a supportive community: Surround yourself with people who understand and support your journey.

• Practice mindfulness: Be present in your workouts and meals. Appreciate the feeling of your body working and the nourishment you’re providing it.

  
  

Final Thoughts:

Fitness is a journey, not a destination. It’s about choosing your struggle and finding joy in the process. It’s about falling in love with the fight, not just the victory.

So, what pain are you willing to embrace? What struggle are you willing to choose?

Let’s ditch the illusions of instant gratification and embrace the beautiful, messy, challenging, and ultimately rewarding journey of fitness.

Keep pushing, keep growing, and most importantly, keep loving the fight!

Stay Strong,

Elizabeth DeHart Fitness.