Fit Villains: Selfish, Shameless, Sassy, Fitness.

Some of you have mentioned to me (privately & in replies to posts), that you feel insecure about going to the gym, or starting to work out, as a beginner. Most of you are worried about the judgment of others.

It can be scary feeling as though you’re being judged, but I guarantee you, it’s simply a projection of your inner insecurity (and, just so you know, those that ARE judging are showing you their insecurity. They are also projecting).

When I see people working out who look as though they’re just starting, I feel an overwhelming sense of inspiration. I don’t look at their bodies, I don’t care that they’re out of shape. I was there too and I still feel awkward with new activities. But I do recognize that it must have been a big step for them to go out that day, and I almost always feel more inspired to take a big step myself.

With fitness, there’s only pushing your own limits, not meeting or matching someone else’s. So many times we get in our own way when we limit ourselves in terms of what’s possible.

I surprise myself every single day with how far I’ve pushed and can push my body to go. Every single day I learn more about how it works, where it’s limits are, and what I can do. All it takes is a leap of faith, a good attitude, and reminding myself daily that the worst thing that can happen is NOT being JUDGED, but rather NEVER KNOWING how far I could have gone. I cannot tell you how much these simple things enrich my life.

So, if you’re feeling shy, insecure, or nervous about heading to the gym, going for a walk, or getting active in places where people might see you; try your best to to imagine that you’re inspiring them instead. So many people have been in your shoes, know what it’s like, and those of us who made it to the other side are fist pumping you all the way. There is NOTHING more inspiring than seeing someone push themselves, better themselves and kick their own ass.

If that doesn’t work at first? Invest in awesome earphones, get some buddies in the same boat, and drown those insecurities out as often as you can with some positive self-talk. It doesn’t happen overnight: it might have taken a lifetime to build those insecurities and it might take years to beat them down. But, that said, anything difficult gets easier with time & practice (like learning to read or learning a new language). You’ll get there with effort, I promise.

In the mean time, get out there whenever possible. I promise you, the real payoff is way bigger than the downside in your head.

xo

(via healthysexyhappy)