We’re halfway through September, and I have to be honest: I’m far from reaching my goal of 15 gym days this month. I can blame the cold I’ve been dealing with or say that time is short—but the truth is, I talk myself out of going far too easily.
Self-discipline is something I know I need to improve. Without it, the excuses win. With it, the goals become possible.
Where I’m At
Even with fewer workouts than I planned, the scale shows 268 pounds this morning. Maybe it’s the cold that’s curbed my appetite, or maybe it’s the fact that my job keeps me moving—walking, lifting, and staying physically active throughout the day. Either way, I’m still making progress. And that’s encouraging.
Let’s Get On the Bike More
Just as easily as I can skip the gym, I’ve been skipping out on rides. My bike hasn’t seen the light of day since the day I bought it. That needs to change. One way to push myself is simple: pack it in the car. If I have it with me, I take away the excuse of “I didn’t have time.” Whether it’s a short ride on a Bismarck path or a longer trip when I’m in Minnesota, it’s about creating opportunities instead of waiting for them.
Practicing Self-Discipline
Self-discipline isn’t about being perfect—it’s about building habits that make the right choice easier. Here are a few strategies I’m working on this month:
- Plan the workout, don’t just “find the time.” If it’s on the calendar like an appointment, I’m more likely to keep it.
- Use the two-minute rule. If I’m tempted to skip the gym, I tell myself, “Just go for two minutes.” Most of the time, once I start, I finish.
- Remove friction. I can lay out gym clothes the night before or keep my bike ready to roll. The less thinking I have to do, the fewer excuses I can make.
- Track consistency, not perfection. Whether it’s marking gym days on a calendar or tracking steps on my smartwatch, seeing progress builds momentum.
- Have a mantra. Lately mine has been: “Discipline beats motivation.” Motivation fades, but discipline builds lasting change.
Keep Making Progress
It’s a daily battle—eating right, exercising more, and getting good sleep. Some days I win, some days I don’t. But I’m committed to showing up, learning from setbacks, and moving forward.
I may not be on track for 15 gym days this month, but I am on track for something just as important: building better discipline. And if I can strengthen that muscle, the rest will follow.
🔑 Takeaway of the Month (Midpoint Check-In)
Excuses are easy, discipline is hard—but discipline is what creates real change. Each small act of consistency is a step toward becoming the healthier, stronger version of mys