Be aware of your mindset.
Your mindset will, without a doubt, dictate your outcome. There are two types of mindsets, fixed mindset and growth mindset.
Let's talk about a fixed mindset, but more specifically, the "all or nothing" fixed mindset.
As a coach I have had the pleasure to work with hundreds of athletes in my career so far. I have had many conversations with many of those athletes throughout the years. And I cant tell you, the "all or nothing" fixed mindset has derailed so many athletes. It has kept so many athletes from obtaining their goals.
These are some of the thoughts that have ran through their head:
- If they are not doing "RX" in a workout, it's pointless to do the workout.
- If they are not able to make it to the gym, then why bother doing a home workout version because it wont be as "hard".
- If they are experiencing an injury, then might as well stay away from the gym until they can do everything they want to be able to do.
- If they can't "win" a workout, why bother showing up.
- If there is a movement they are not good at, then let's stay away from the gym because that movement will expose them.
- If life becomes busy and they are not able to make it to the gym when it's been convenient for them, they automatically dismiss any other class time.
- And so on....
This "all or nothing" fixed mindset is toxic. I know it's toxic because I too experienced it. But I can tell you with 100% confidence, all that mindset did was set me back on my fitness journey. All that mindset did was create an unhealthy relationship with working out and how I view outcomes on things I do in life.
So how have I been able to overcome this "all or nothing" fixed mindset?
First, I had a reality check with myself. I had to quit believing my own "bullshit" and realize that I am the reason why I have yet to accomplish my goals.
Second, I had to revisit my "why". Why do I want to accomplish my goals? Why is fitness important to me? Why do I want a healthier lifestyle? I had to create an emotional connection with my "why". I had to dig deeper into my surface level goal statements of "I want to look better" and "I want to be able to play with my daughter".
Third, I had to commit. I made a promise to myself that I will work on my health and fitness regardless. I scheduled my workouts in my calendar. I found accountability buddies. I printed out my "why" so I can read it.
Fourth, I took action. It was not easy at first because reshaping your mindset never is. But it is very possible. I no longer let workouts dictate my "worth" as an athlete. I now know that my workouts serve me in becoming the person I desire to become in the future.
If you find yourself with this "all or nothing" fixed mindset, I urge you to follow these steps. And if you would like to sit down and talk about it, let's talk. I'm always here to help anyway I can.
Respectfully,
Josh Melendez
