Showing up
There’s been a thought circling in my mind this week—showing up. Not just in the gym, not just at family events, but in every corner of life. Showing up is the secret sauce, the unglamorous but essential ingredient to success. Yet let’s be real—some people just don’t get it. They expect you to always be there for them, but when it’s their turn? Crickets.
Here’s the thing though—it doesn’t phase me anymore. Why? Because on this journey, I’ve realized there are two types of people: supporters and spectators. And let me tell you, I’m not here for the peanut gallery.
Discipline Over Excuses
Whether you’re pushing weights or pushing through life’s challenges, discipline is what separates dreamers from doers. We all know the formula: wake up earlier, put in the work, eat right. But knowing won’t transform your life—doing will. That’s the whole idea behind my Instagram series, Discipline Diaries. Every Monday, I drop a reel to remind you that it’s not about intentions; it’s about execution.
Your dreams? They’re not waiting for you to feel ready. They’re waiting for you to show up. That’s why, whether it’s our 5-day fitness challenge or the 8-week programs at Workout Harder Fitness, success belongs to those who choose to show up, tired or not, motivated or not.
And trust me, I get it. Eating a 1650-calorie, high-protein diet while chasing my goal weight of 180 lbs is no walk in the park. It’s tempting to hit snooze or reach for that comfort food. But discipline doesn’t negotiate, and neither do I.
Accountability: The Game-Changer
Here’s one of the hardest lessons I’ve learned: no one owes you support. That was a tough pill to swallow, especially when you find yourself showing up for people who never return the favor. But let’s flip the script—what about the support you owe yourself?
In my Branches of Manhood leadership program, I teach young men that accountability is the bridge to growth. They learn to take responsibility for their actions and step into roles of leadership—not because someone told them to, but because they know the value of showing up.
It’s a lesson we can all take to heart. Stop waiting for someone else to cheer you on. Stop waiting for validation. The best kind of support is the kind you build within yourself. And when you commit to your own success, no one’s absence can slow you down.
The Power of Community
At the core of everything I do is this: community over crowd. It’s not about numbers; it’s about the right energy, the right people. Whether it’s the Men of Color Hike, Worship Workout, or Manhood Yoga, it’s about creating a space where growth thrives.
In my work with Fitness Awareness for All Ages, we bring that same philosophy to life. From kids to veterans, from individuals in recovery to minority men, we’re building something bigger than fitness. We’re building resilience. Strength. Purpose.
Because here’s the truth: the biggest battle we fight is within ourselves. And the way we win? By showing up every single day, not just for ourselves, but for the community that’s walking the same path.
Show Up for You
Distractions will come. People will flake. And life? It will throw its curveballs. But at the end of the day, the only question that matters is this: did you show up for you.
Start being the person you look up to. Not tomorrow. Not next week. Today. Apply yourself. Hold yourself accountable. And remember—discipline isn’t just about sacrifice; it’s about freedom. Freedom to become the best version of yourself, no matter who’s watching.