I've been writing these blog posts every single day for over a month..

One thing about commitments and daily habits is that there are many days you don't feel like doing it. This is normal.

If I waited until I felt like it, I would never train, write or mow the lawn..

When you are driven, you push through that weak feeling and do it anyway.

The same can be said for training, or any habit you want to create that enhances your life.

Your mind plays tricks on you. It tries to keep you right where you are, in your comfort zone.

I'd much rather scroll mindlessly through instagram photos instead of sitting down to write what's on my mind and soul.

Anything that is PASSIVE- watching tv, netflix, movies, reading the paper, scrolling facebook etc.. these are comfortable activities..

Your mind desires comfort. Staying safe.

Opening yourself up by writing a journal, book or blog post, can be scary. You are out there vulnerable. People can judge you, criticize you..

That's where the growth is.

Just like with your training. Get out of your comfort zone and see what you are made of.

Dips are back

I did some dips this morning. First time in many months. They used to be one of my favorite exercises. I'm glad to be able to do them again.

Last time I tried doing them, I had elbow pain that made me avoid them for awhile.

I decided to take some time off from bench presses, reduce the weight on overhead presses and remove low-bar squats from my routine to allow my elbows to heal up.

Sometimes you have to work around injuries. It's part of life. Usually the dings and dents come outside of the gym.

You learn how to deal with these challenges and take notes. Become self-aware and listen to what your body is telling you.

When you return to an exercise after a break, remember to start nice and slow. Go easy. I've learned the hard way many times to not go too heavy too soon.

Give your body a chance to adapt.

Add a few pounds or reps when you can, but not too much at once.

New Challenge

Have you tried any challenges lately?

I finished the 30 day cold-shower challenge and now I need a new one to keep pushing beyond my current capabilities.

Find something that resonates with you.

It can be a number goal on the scale, a mileage goal, weight training milestone.. anything.. just pick one that gets you fired up and START.

When I choose my next challenge, I'll keep you posted.

I think it's healthy to see what others are accomplishing. In my opinion, it helps us to see what is possible.

Most of us aren't genetic freaks, playing professional sports at the highest level, so when you see a "regular" guy overcoming obstacles and getting after it, you see how much MORE you can do.

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