Evolution of the Self is Ignited by the Willingness to Embrace Discomfort

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As we train for specific adaptations, our bodies learn to catch up to the stressors that we impose and become stronger as a result. Often, it takes several weeks to see progress, and  for some, it takes a great amount of patience and perseverance in order to put in the necessary work that is required in order to finally arrive at that 6, 8, or 12 week mark having shown some significant, noticeable progress.

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Along the way, we build discipline by the cultivation of a work ethic. At certain points along the path, when the work just seems to be insurmountable or discouraging, we pick up nuggets of motivation to push us out of our rut. And a "rut" seems the appropriate description for the feeling we get when the road becomes bogged down. Adversity and resistance seems to pour down like rain, making the proverbial ground so muddy that it seems like it could suck our boots right off our feet; those same boots that will eventually take us to the end of the road. When we find the wherewithal to continue onward, forward to the bright light at the end of the tunnel, we are back on track and the cycle starts anew, leaving us stronger for the effort.

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This cycle happens for several iterations within the course of our journey to the person we want to be. We build habits, affinities and learn what works for us and what does not. It's important to keep in mind the original idea that drove you to decide to take on this path in the first place: You want to improve.

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Equally important is the necessity to celebrate the intermediate victories that you experience along the path, no matter how far the end goal may seem. Learning to be fit is like learning to fly. As you gain new abilities, confidence and goals, try new challenges. You discover a desire to pick up a sport that you have never tried before, or never thought you would be good enough to play. You decide to travel to a different country, where in the past you were too worried about your health to even board an airplane. You finally accept the invitation of your friend to embark on an overnight backpacking trip and no longer fear losing your breath and being left behind.

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When you take that first uncertain step, something inside you awakens. At the very least, you will walk away knowing what you don't want to do; and in that process eliminating a path that was not yours to take. At best you will find some new endeavor to love and at which to excel. 

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In order to make fitness your lifestyle, you must be willing to grow. We have been endowed with minds that hunger for exploration, discovery and challenge. All of these things require that you step outside of your comfort zone. Growth lies just beyond its borders. When you return, you will find yourself having evolved. Think back to your original intent, and find that you have indeed improved. It only takes one step, and then you will have earned one look back.