How I finally kept a New Year's resolution (and why this time was different)
As February approaches, that energetic New Year's momentum begins to wane. But reflecting on 2024, I realized something remarkable – I actually kept one of my resolutions: to start weight training.
Every article about midlife health emphasizes the importance of building and maintaining muscle. As we age, it's crucial for our bones, metabolism, and balance. While I'd occasionally tackle a Peloton weights workout, I knew I needed accountability and expertise to make this commitment stick.
What made the difference this time?
A Gentler Mindset
Unlike my previous fitness attempts focused on losing weight or changing my body shape, this time my intention was simple: get stronger and contribute to my overall health by showing up consistently. Notice what was missing – no specific weight loss target, no deadline, no rigid expectations. Just a commitment to consistency.
Embracing Simplicity
I knew exactly what I needed: a nearby gym offering early morning group classes. Instead of endless research and deliberation, I took action. I found a weight lifting gym (yes, with tattooed trainers my children's age) and connected with a kind, knowledgeable young woman who got me started. When her schedule changed, rather than letting it derail me, I found an even better option – a reputable gym offering 7 AM classes six days a week.
The Courage to Begin Again
As a perfectionist, being a beginner was particularly challenging. Walking into group classes where most participants had trained together for years tested my resolve. I felt self-conscious about unfamiliar equipment and worried about slowing others down. But here's what I learned: those stories I told myself about others' judgments? They existed only in my mind. The discomfort was real, but so was my determination to keep showing up.
Redefining Success
Perfect attendance was never the goal. Life happened – travel, family emergencies, necessary breaks. The difference this time? Instead of letting interruptions become permanent stops, I simply began again. Success wasn't about unbroken streaks but about returning to the path.
The Gift of Self-Compassion
Learning something new in midlife means confronting our own expectations and ego. Rather than criticizing myself for not being instantly competent, I celebrated my courage to begin. Every time I felt awkward or unsure, I reminded myself that everyone – even those now lifting impressive weights – started as a beginner.
Finding Your Tribe
What started as solo mission transformed into a cherished morning ritual. Now, I look forward to greeting the sunrise on my way to the gym. My gym friends have become an unexpected gift, offering encouragement, accountability, and celebration of each other's progress.
As we move deeper into 2025, remember that growth doesn't require grandiose gestures or perfect execution. Sometimes, the most profound changes come from simple commitments, honored consistently, with patience and kindness toward ourselves. Whether it's weight training or another pursuit calling to you in midlife, the key isn't perfection – it's persistence, self-compassion, and the courage to begin again as many times as necessary.
Is there something you've been wanting to try but have been putting off because you're afraid of looking foolish? What's one small step you could take this week? Email me back and I can be your accountability partner.
