(blog)

Let’s get this out of the way: perfection is a myth. When it comes to fitness, waiting for the “perfect time” or aiming for the “perfect routine” is just another way of stalling.

I used to think fitness meant working out six days a week, eating steamed broccoli with dry chicken breast, and never missing a step. Then life hit. Work stress, a sprained ankle, family emergencies—suddenly, I was missing workouts and eating pizza at midnight. And yet, somehow, I was still progressing. Slowly. Steadily. And maybe most importantly—sustainably.

Here’s what I’ve learned: consistency beats intensity. Always.

Sure, it’s tempting to try those 30-day shred challenges, or copy elite athletes on Instagram. But what works for them might not work for you. What does work is showing up in your own way, every day—or most days. A 20-minute walk. A set of push-ups between Zoom calls. Swapping one sugar-loaded snack for a better one. These things may feel small, but they stack up.

Fitness isn’t about guilt. It’s not about punishing your body because you skipped a workout or ate dessert. It’s about building a relationship with yourself. One that says, “I care enough to keep going—even if it’s messy.”

And yes, fitness changes you. Not just your body, but how you show up in life. You become more patient. You start choosing what makes you feel good over what gives instant gratification. You learn discipline, and then compassion—especially for yourself.

Here’s a truth no one tells you: no one’s watching you as closely as you think. The gym regulars aren’t judging your form. Your friends aren’t tracking whether you hit your protein goal. It’s your journey, and the only person you owe results to is you.

So if you’re starting out—or starting over—just begin. Even if it’s a single stretch, a five-minute walk, or one less soda. You don’t need to be perfect to be fit. You just need to keep going.

Progress over perfection. Every time.