Initiations of Action
The Challenge of Initiating Exercise
Exercise is a deeply personal endeavor—one that requires individual effort and yields individual rewards. Yet, the most challenging aspect often lies in simply getting started. It’s always easier to procrastinate, to convince ourselves that today isn’t the right day, or that our health goals can wait.
Facing Uncertainty and Fear
Change, uncertainty, and fear drive our daily decisions. How we choose to respond to these factors shapes the course of our lives. While the future remains uncertain, we have the power to make choices that align with our goals.
Lessons from Elite Athletics
In my experience working with high-level athletes, I’ve observed a common trait among the most successful: unwavering honesty with themselves. In the NHL, success often came to those who could “man up”—not in terms of toughness or aggression, but in their ability to embrace emotions, care deeply, and recognize that their efforts were part of something greater than themselves.
The margin between success and obscurity in professional sports is razor-thin, which can be terrifying. Yet, those who accept uncertainty as reality and focus on bettering themselves in each moment, regardless of circumstances, are the ones who ultimately succeed.
Embracing the Present Moment
To overcome uncertainty, we must take action and discover our capabilities. This requires:
- Clearly defining your health and fitness goals
- Embracing your current starting point
- Initiating the work, despite the discomfort
The Hardest Part: Getting Started
Uncertainty and fear often resurface when it’s time to begin. You must willingly do something uncomfortable, with no immediate reward in sight. Remember: the first time is always the hardest, but with each effort, you learn that initiation is worth it.
The Beauty of Individual Effort
Few things are as individually transactional as exercise. The work you put in directly correlates to the benefits you receive. While seeking guidance and support is valuable, your success ultimately depends on your commitment and effort.
Building Confidence Through Exercise
Exercise is one of the best ways to build self-confidence. By consistently facing resistance and initiating work from your true starting point, you learn just how capable you are. This confidence and self-knowledge extend far beyond fitness, influencing every aspect of your life.
Your Next Step
These moments of decision-making occur throughout our lives. How we influence ourselves in these decisions shapes our entire existence. So, the question remains: How will you initiate that first step today?
Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Seek help, find guidance, but know that the most crucial step—the decision to begin—rests with you.