Are your training goals vanity? Maybe. But for the vast majority of folks I coach -- even if they think that at first "I mean, it's just vanity, really". It's not usually true. I ask every new client to do a brief writing exercise in self-reflection and self-projection so that we both are on the same page regarding their desires, obstacles, and personal knowledge about what needs to change. I recently received a submission where the young man said: "My goals are really vain at this point. Honestly, I just don't want to look in the mirror and be frustrated at myself anymore" Now I know that many individuals have taken this "let's look good naked" thing too far. Obsessing over food and exercise. Posting half-naked selfies all over the internet for likes and follows. Strutting around believing everyone's checking them out. It's been my experience, though, that for many of my clients - the desire to look in the mirror and to start smiling back at themselves instead of frowning stems from something deeper than meaningless showboating. After a brief conversation, that was clear for this young man. It's not vanity to want to hear "keep up the good work" when you catch a glance of your reflection. It's not vanity to make the most of what you've been given. It's not vanity to learn how to feed yourself well. It's not vanity to stop being lazy. It's not vanity to get enough sleep. It's not vanity to show up well for your spouse and children (present or future). It's not vanity to lead by example. It's not vanity for your outward appearance to relate to the integrity, grit, strength, love, truth, ownership, and transcendence with which you seek to live your life. Most people don't care to be proud of themselves. They just want to be at peace with what they see. To have visual confirmation that they are: Manifesting their potential. Playing the best game with the hand they've been dealt. Aligning their nutrition, exercise, and rest optimally. Showing up well for themselves and their families. 1% Better Daily isn't an easy (or fast) road. But it's not a vain one either. What do you see when you look in the mirror? How would you like to see that change? Be real, do you have the know-how, support, and motivation to do so? Better is many of things. But, in my experience, it's never in vain. *Photo* Throwback from nearly 3 years ago. They're getting heavier! I'll get @BetterDietitian to take a new one for me and the boys soon!

Posted by Coach Alex VanHouten at 2022-03-15 11:35:43 UTC