Have you ever held off starting a workout or fitness journey because you didn’t feel “ready” or good enough? Perfectionism can keep you from taking action, making you think you must be at a certain level before starting. But waiting for perfection can hold you back from progressing, both in fitness and life.
Exercise is a great way to challenge perfectionism and build mental strength. Here’s how to use your workouts to control your thoughts and let go of the need to be perfect:
- Remind yourself: “No Feeling is Final”
Just like physical fatigue, negative thoughts are temporary. Acknowledge them, but remember they’ll pass. The feeling of discomfort in a workout doesn’t last forever, and neither does self-doubt. - Practice the “Sky and Weather” exercise
Think of your mind as the sky; your thoughts and emotions are just the weather. When you’re struggling to start or through a tough workout, remember that these challenges are temporary, and you remain steady, like the sky itself. - Notice the thought and let it pass
If you think, “I’m not strong enough,” pause and say, “That’s just a thought.” This helps you detach from negative self-talk and refocus on the action of moving forward. - Be action-oriented
If you’re struggling with perfectionism during a workout, focus on what you can do right now. The goal isn’t to do everything perfectly—it’s to show up and make progress, one step at a time.
Next time you feel like you’re not ready to tackle a workout, remember: You don’t have to be perfect to start. Exercise is a powerful reminder that progress comes from action, not perfection. Show up, challenge your thoughts, and keep moving forward.
Written by: AK Ibsen
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