“Putting in the work” means dedicating consistent effort to reach a goal, whether it’s in a job, a relationship, or personal growth. I know it’s an exciting start, but it’s essential to get a working definition when a term means many things.
Not being the most gifted and talented person in the sandbox, I’d often have to put in extra effort to get decent at the task at hand. If I didn’t put in the work, frustration would set in. However, we often associate the word ‘work’ with negative feelings. Why? Because it’s what puts food on the table and pays the bills.
But the work we’re discussing here isn’t about a paycheck; it’s about your health and well-being. Let’s explore this concept to improve your health and fitness.
Work? We’re Talking About Work?
Many things we do become automatic.
Our brains and bodies handle them on autopilot—like brushing your teeth or driving a car. The more we perform these tasks, the less effort they require because unconscious actions take over the work. This automation frees up brain power for tasks that require focus and attention.
Certain things in our lives become automatic, but we’d like to turn on autopilot. Yet they still require putting in the work. Something that comes to mind is relationships.
Having been married for nearly 24 years, I find it easy to take my partner for granted. In any long-term relationship, you grow comfortable with each other, and actions often replace words because some things go unsaid. After all, you understand them.
You think the longer you do something, like golf or marriage, the better you should get. It includes anticipating your partner’s needs and whims or shooting a lower score.
But that’s not the case with either.
Many golfers practice hard but can never get over the hump. After speaking to people who have been married a long time, there are natural ebbs and flows in a marriage. A good relationship or golf game requires more than going through the motions. It also requires putting in the work and not taking it for granted.
Without getting too Dr. Phil-like, that involves more listening, showing genuine interest in your partner’s hobbies or ideas, complimenting their appearance, and engaging in open and honest conversations. Even if they’re challenging to have.
What about golf? I have no idea. You are on your own there.
Working On Your Health and Fitness
Here’s the thing about exercise for many people. It often feels like work. Doing it before or at the end of a long day feels like a chore, and you’re not always motivated to do it. When the results aren’t there, it’s easier to shove it down the to-do list or skip it altogether.
Even when I feel that way, I remind myself of all the good things walking and lifting weights do for my health. So, how do you make your health and fitness more automatic? So, showing up and putting in the work for it isn’t a trial and tribulation.
Here’s my two cents’ worth.
- Remind yourself that exercise is a gift, not a punishment for misbehavior (like school) or for what you ate last night (adult). I often remind myself that the person in a wheelchair would love to get up and go for a walk.
- Choose any activity you enjoy because enjoyment drives action, while motivation comes and goes. You’re more likely to stick with something over the long haul if there is enjoyment there, even if it’s golf.
- If you have a vanity or performance goal related to your health and fitness, make it visible. So, it serves as a consistent reminder of what you’ve committed to.
- Because motivation and results are fleeting, even when you’re doing all the right things, leaving visible reminders to get your exercise is essential—like scheduling it in a calendar app, laying out your clothes, and packing a bag the night before. My favorite is having exercise equipment at home. That acts like an alarm for me.
The overarching theme above is making it automatic through visible reminders and mindset switches, so putting in the work becomes easier.
Wrapping Up
Putting in the work happens when there’s a clear benefit for the person receiving it. In relationships, it’s about staying together and deepening your love or friendship. For your health, it’s about improving both the quality and quantity of your life, allowing you to do more fun things for longer.
Doesn’t that sound worth it?
Work With Me Online
Whether you’re just starting or you’re tired of piecing together random YouTube workouts, I’ve built my online coaching to help you succeed with:
Customized workouts you can do at home
Mobility routines to reduce stiffness and move better
Expert guidance and progress tracking that fits your lifestyle
Real accountability
Click here to get started today
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