We all have a spark that ignites our fire and that drives us. Something in life, in relationships and in workouts gets us up to do our best. We are all different. Some have an inner drive to beat themselves, some have a desire to beat the person next to them, some are recovering from many years of bad decisions and some just find the challenge fun. Really, it doesnt matter. What matters is that you find the spark and that you keep it in perspective.
First, finding the spark. I cant tell you how many people have told me or Joe in the Intro, that they arent competitive. And then they come to class. And then clock starts. And then they know that they can beat so and so next to them. You know what I am talking about, it probably happened to you. Or maybe you really dont care, or you priorities have shifted and you have moved on to the next step and and are in a battle with your self to be the best. For you, it really doesnt matter if you win or loose to someone else, what matters is that YOU get better. That you lay it all out. That you empty your cup. Or maybe you have led a life of fast food, and no exercise and you know you have one foot out the door. For you, every step forward is a positive one and every day in the gym is a win. You find the spark just by opening the door to the gym and stepping in. Regardless of your circumstances, you have found the spark and are willing to the do the work and to put the time in. Now here comes the cautionary tale.
You have the spark. You have what we want you to have. Let it drive you, let it move you to the next level, but do not let it consume you. For those that find the spark in competition with others, dont let the clock drive you to short your self. Shorting reps, range of motion and crappy movement is not the ticket to success. You know the standard. Use it to earn your victories. Not every day is the best day, but make the day you win, a day you KNOW you won. And for those that compete with themselves. Let your training and your passion drive you…but do not let it consume you. When you suck and have let your self down, acknowledge it, but at the same time, when you have exceeded your expectations, enjoy it and feel good about the effort. For those, turning away from a sedentary life, embrace your new found passion but remember to realize that it is a journey and that there will be ups and downs and the know growth gained along the route is the ultimate payoff.
I hope you guys realize that seeing and talking with coaches like you is a huge contributor to that spark that drives a lot of us.
Kim, thank you for the kind words, and know that those conversations and seeing the dedication you and many others possess keeps our spark lit, and is why we love what we do.