Mastering the Balance

Have you ever found yourself giving up on your goals despite your best intentions? Have you wondered why you unconsciously stop pushing forward, even after promising that this time would be different?

Embarking on a new journey involves more than just a commitment to hard work; it requires strategic planning and sometimes, taking it easy. You might be thinking, “Taking it easy? I need to push harder to see results!” This mindset is precisely why many of you find yourselves stuck in a cycle of starting over.

You’re Pushing Too Hard

I faced a similar struggle with my workout routine. I was determined to push through every session, ignoring signs of fatigue from both my mind and body. Every time I felt weak, I pushed harder, thinking that I could overcome any obstacle. But my body eventually rebelled, forcing me into an extended period of recovery that left me feeling even more drained.

Managing three gym sessions and three running sessions each week while juggling a full work schedule took a significant toll on me. I was constantly exhausted, irritated, restless and unable to recover properly, and the cycle of overtraining continued. Over time, I missed countless workout days, and my progress slowed significantly because I was sprinting through every session.

The Key Is to Slow Down

It’s essential to recognize that consistent, moderate effort often yields better results than relentless intensity. Showing up regularly and maintaining a steady pace is far more advantageous than pushing yourself to the limit and then taking long breaks. The goal is not just to have intense workouts but to maintain a consistent routine where each session builds on the last.

While progress might seem slow when you’re not pushing as hard, even incremental improvements are valuable. A 1% increase each session can accumulate to significant gains over time, much more effective than sporadic bursts of intense effort. Adopting a long-term mindset allows you to focus on gradual improvements, which can ultimately lead to better results.

Consistency Over Intensity

Slow down and observe your progress like a coach would analyze a team. Set your sights on your goals, but ensure you’re not redlining your efforts to the point of burnout. Instead, maintain a steady, manageable pace that allows you to keep progressing without sabotaging your overall progress.

By slowing down and focusing on consistent, moderate effort, you’ll achieve milestones you once thought were out of reach. Remember, it’s not about how hard you push in a single workout, but how consistently you show up and improve over time. Stay the course, and you’ll find success when you least expected it.

If you have found yourself over pushing and thus suffering from consistency try to adopt this mentality of consistency over intensity, let me know how it is going!