When we talk about fitness, we often focus on physical strength, endurance, and aesthetics. But what about the mindset that drives our fitness journey?
I often get inspiration from Marcus Aurelius, a stoic philosopher who lived almost two millennia ago.
I think we can find timeless wisdom to guide us toward a more effective and fulfilling fitness experience.
Like somebody said. Anything new we have to learn today will probably come from old books.
Rule 1: Focus on the Essential – Do Your Workout
Marcus Aurelius advised, “Do only what’s truly important.” In the context of fitness, this means focusing on your workout without distractions.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the different exercises, programs, and goals you could pursue. But the key to success is to prioritize and concentrate on one specific metric at a time.
Whether it’s strength, endurance, flexibility, or something else. This not only simplifies your training but also allows you to put all your energy into making significant progress in that one area. Remember, quality over quantity is what truly matters.
Rule 2: Don’t Suffer Imagined Troubles – Focus on What You Can Do
Injuries or physical limitations can be frustrating, but Marcus Aurelius’s wisdom teaches us not to let our imagination be crushed by what we cannot do.
Instead, shift your focus to the things you can do. If you’re injured, list all the exercises that are still within your capability and dedicate your energy to them. This shift in perspective not only helps in maintaining consistency but also boosts your morale, making your recovery period more productive and less stressful.
Rule 3: Never Be Overheard Complaining – Keep a Positive Attitude
Complaining gets you nowhere, in fitness and in life. Aurelius emphasized the importance of not indulging in complaints, even internally. In your fitness journey, you may encounter tough workouts, slow progress, or days when motivation is low.
Instead of dwelling on these, focus on the positive aspects: the progress you’ve made, the strength you’ve gained, and the discipline you’re cultivating. A positive attitude not only enhances your experience but also encourages those around you.
Rule 4: Don’t Waste Time Worrying About Other People’s Opinions – Don’t Compare Yourself to Others
In today’s world of social media, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others, especially in terms of physical appearance.
Marcus Aurelius reminds us to focus only on what we can control. In fitness, this means setting your own health and performance metrics, rather than measuring your success by someone else’s standards. Concentrate on improving your strength, endurance, flexibility, and overall well-being. As you achieve these milestones, your confidence will grow, and you’ll find greater satisfaction in your accomplishments.
2000 years of wisdom still holds
At Escapist CrossFit, we encourage you to embrace these stoic principles. Focus on what truly matters in your fitness journey, adapt to your circumstances without complaints, and let go of comparisons. By doing so, you’ll not only achieve your goals but also develop a mindset that will carry you through any challenges life throws your way.
Remember, just as Marcus Aurelius found peace and strength in focusing on the essentials, so too can you find success in your fitness journey by adhering to these timeless principles. Let’s make every workout count, stay positive, and celebrate our personal growth.