Effort + Intention = Progress

Improving at anything means pushing through a challenge. It's tempting to avoid tension, but as Ryan Holiday explores in “The Obstacle is the Way,” facing obstacles head-on is essential for finding our path forward. This truth isn’t just for life’s bigger battles; it’s especially relevant in our fitness journeys.

Though effort is crucial for progress, not all efforts lead us to our goals. The key lies in directing our energies towards overcoming specific challenges that stand in our way. It’s not just about the sweat and time spent; it’s about making sure every drop counts towards something meaningful.

Consider this: you're aiming to increase your running endurance, but instead of varied, general workouts, focusing on consistent, targeted interval training could offer the breakthrough you need. That’s the power of directed, intentional effort.

Next time you set a fitness goal, pause and reflect: “Is my effort directed where it needs to be?” Use the obstacles that have consistently blocked your path as signposts for where to channel your efforts.

It's not merely about working hard, it's about working smarter on the things that matter most.

Act Now: Consider your current fitness goal. Identify an area that’s been particularly challenging. Is your effort there as focused as it could be? Zero in on that challenge. Your path to real progress starts with addressing it head-on.