Failed Starts

The notion of New Year, Monday, next month, or after my birthday often serves as a delaying tactic for embarking on new, challenging endeavors. The allure of fresh starts is compelling, especially when the concept of a clean slate is ingrained in our culture. However, true change doesn’t need a specific date; the time is always now. It should always be now!
There’s no valid reason to postpone the commencement of a journey. Those who procrastinate risk being left behind, often finding convenient excuses for their current life situation—commonly citing reasons like kids, jobs, time, or money.

As a gym owner, I’ve encountered countless individuals who declare specific dates to kickstart their fitness program, only to fade into silence. Many talk themselves out of taking the necessary steps. Money and time become the top excuses, particularly when faced with the prospect of committing to a gym that demands accountability. Opting for the allure of a big box gym with a cheap monthly membership fee allows for sporadic attendance and a false sense of accomplishment.

Unlike the impersonal environment of larger gyms where your name may go unnoticed, small box gyms like mine prioritize personal connection. We call our members to ensure billing information is correct, emphasizing our commitment to their progress. The reality is that over 80% of big box gym members rarely show up, perpetuating a cycle of unfulfilled resolutions.

Monday isn’t the magic day to initiate change, and the new year doesn’t guarantee a fresh start. The best way to start something is to act immediately, as overthinking often leads to inaction. Owning a small gym means valuing every member and understanding their unique needs. When they express a desire to start on Monday, I caution them about the pitfalls of wanting quick results for events like parties or vacations. Trust is built through honesty, even when the truth may be uncomfortable.

To those waiting for the perfect moment, be it Monday or another arbitrary date, understand that such a day doesn’t exist. Waiting for it wastes precious weeks, months, and years. Discipline is the key to success—a winner is someone consistently working towards self-improvement. So, are you a winner actively pursuing progress, or are you still waiting for that elusive perfect moment to begin? The choice is yours.