Don’t Compare Your Beginning to Someone Else’s Middle

Are you constantly comparing yourself to other people? “Oh, how I wish that I looked like that person!” As I ponder the hundreds of times that I’ve listened to such expression of one’s displeasure with their body, I wish to offer some insight – no one is completely happy with their current physical state!

Perhaps you have never considered that the same individual who you are staring at, subtly of course, is actually having the same wishful thought about someone else. And, yes, that person has his or her eyes on yet another who is deemed to have an absolutely perfect physique. Do you see how this could be never ending? In the quest for perfection, all of us will be left seeking for more, and all of us will fall short in this life. Reality teaches us that no one is immune from illness, injury, or simply the ebb and flow of life events. Circumstances beyond our control can put a temporary damper on the attainment of any personal physical fitness goals.

You might perhaps feel as if you are spinning your wheels in the mud and progress seems unlikely to occur any time soon. What are you to do if you face such a set-back? Since there exists no inoculation to shield you from trials, you must simply accept them and carry on.

As my intention is to be encouraging, I must tell you that you can rise to meet you own personal challenges. Remember, be strong, you never know who YOU might inspire through your efforts, because as we have already established, people are watching, wishing, and waiting. Even you, who currently may not be exactly thrilled with yourself, may be just the person someone else needs.

In the gym, as in life, let us not be so quick to judge others. We assume too much as we peer across the health club at our idol. Do not make the mistake in presuming that everything comes easy to this particular person. We are not aware of his or her own struggles. Nothing lasting and worthwhile comes without a price to be paid. Are you willing to offer a small portion of that cost each day to improve? “You have not failed unless you quit trying.” -Gordon B. Hinkley

Merely gazing at someone’s large biceps or nicely sculpted legs or shoulders is not going to instantly transform your own body parts. Can anything good come from your wandering eyes and dare I call it “body envy”? By seeking to find a fitness role model, you can attempt to emulate some of the healthy habits which are put into practice. You might acquire that little extra motivation or even precious knowledge from the one whom you admire at the gym.

However, here is where I caution you to be careful. Please read the following warning label:

1.) Some of the people who look as if they should know what they are doing, actually do not. Indeed, improper form too often accompanies the exercise practices of those who appear to fit the ideal role model.

2.) There is no perfect approach that will work for everyone. So, mimicking every move another makes is not necessarily a recipe for your personal success. “If you are still looking for that one person who will change your life, take a look in the mirror”.- Roman Price

I stand ready and willing to help, but ultimately you are in control of your destiny. We are all at different points along our fitness journey. “Don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle.” -Jon Acoff   There exists no end, only new beginnings. So, believe that you are in the very midst of becoming the amazing person who you were intended to be, and stop staring at other people. Make today the day you decide to change your attitude toward yourself. You have been you for a very long time. You are unique. I am inspired by you. Keep up the great work!