Don’t go hard
A famous tortoise once demonstrated that we can be more successful by doing things slowly and steadily (consistent, progressive effort) rather than by: acting quickly and carelessly; being overconfident and distracted; over-estimating our capability and making bad decisions along the way. In Aesop’s fable, the tortoise advocates longevity, focus and discipline. So why do we often take the approach of the hare?
We are often tempted to approach strategy and application in a similar style to that of the hare. Excited about a new idea, diving in with great energy and enthusiasm, expecting immediate results. When the results obviously don’t come, we might get distracted by a new idea, we may lose interest or we might simply forget. Good results take time and consistency – the tortoise wins.
Anyone can hammer a savage workout for 20 minutes, burying themselves in the process. The results of this one session will be difficult to see. Plus, 100% effort is hard, it requires a decent amount of recovery, leading to a lack of consistency. Lack of consistency then leads to potential injury due to system shock and ill-prepared structures. Such high intensity with limited consistency usually leads to long-term failure.
Don’t get distracted, be consistent
Consistent progressive effort is where the real skill lies. When we put the muscles in our bodies and minds under positive tension and stress, with recovery and rebuild built in, we achieve enduring progress. Consistency wins over perfection or intensity every time.
“Long-term consistency trumps short-term intensity” – Bruce Lee
As humans, we are far more capable than we lead ourselves to believe. With diligence, focus and time, our brains are wired to help us accomplish things we hadn’t previously thought possible. What we often lack is an understanding of, or attention to, the process:
– Set a GOAL
– Make a PLAN
– Embrace CONSISTENCY
Any form of GOAL: exercise, nutrition or skills development, requires a simple PLAN:
– Establish the Foundation
– Train for Growth
– Recover
– Establish the new Foundation
– Train for Growth
– Recover
“You do not rise to the level of your goals, you fall to the level of your systems” – James Clear, Atomic Habits
Consistent, progressive effort is the key – not all out, but ALL IN. It’s time to #muscleup. Get in touch if you’d like to find out how we can support you.
