Goal Weight: 185 lbs.
Current Weight: 199 lbs.
If you are over three years old, you’ve met a discourager. You know who I am talking about; that person who always says or does the wrong thing at the right time. That person who, for whatever reason, makes you doubt yourself and your goal. They can be well-meaning or they can be honestly out to get you. Either way, they are like a torpedo heading right at your dreams.
A discourager can be a boss, a teacher, a co-worker, a friend, a family member or a total stranger. They have power because you respect them or because of their position of power over you. There is nothing more devastating than a boss who doesn’t see your worth. Or a loved-one who questions your dream.
Discouragers are real. They are out there. And they are toxic.
When you begin a fitness program, you have enough doubts to begin with. Pain is one of the first things you have to overcome. Your muscles usually aren’t happy when they are chocked full of lactic acid. And then you have to get past the cognitive discomfort of change. The initial four weeks, the time before you see big changes in your body, you are particularly vulnerable to discouragers. When you hear someone mock you for getting up early and working out — well that can be the straw that breaks the camel’s back.
Don’t allow that to happen.
I have discouragers in my life. I’ve had bosses who’ve tried to make me quit. Coaches who did the same. I’ve had teachers who told me I couldn’t write. And people have mocked me for my dedication to fitness. I can tell you first hand, there is nothing more devastating than when people you look to for motivation are against you.
That’s when you reach inside. Fire up the furnace of motivation. Focus down the road at your ultimate goal. In the past year, I’ve allowed a particular discourager to make me question my talent. What a waste of time that was.
If you need someone to believe in what you’re doing, write me. I’ll believe in you. And I hope you’ll believe in me back. But if you don’t, it’s OK. Discouragers have lost all their power over me.
I ran a quick 3:17 miles this morning. My legs are really tired. Tomorrow I’ll run five and then take Saturday off. Sunday will be my long-run day. It’s supposed to be cooler and less humid. Praise be to God for that.
Thanks, Marshall. I needed this today!
You’re welcome. I needed it, too.
I’d like to break a big ol can of whoop-a$$ out on ANYONE who mocks you! You are the most inspirational person in my life!
After almost 39 years in a career that made me feel like a robot, and devastating financial problems, medical problems, and having a load of other family stuff dumped on me, I gave up on life– literally. Fortunately, after giving up on God, He stepped in and got my attention. I am so happy now! I feel like my life has just begun, and I will NEVER go down any road where God doesn’t lead me. Only listening to His voice now!
I’ll take you up on that offer of support Marshall. I’ve been following your posts and listening to your radio show for a while. People are scared by change even changes being made by others around them. The status quo is being challenged, comfort zones being shaken. “The Resistance” is an indication you are shaking things up. Good for you. If you aren’t getting any resistance, kick it up a notch. Wonder if that teacher ever published anything in her life? Once again thanks for your inspiration.
Thank you, Marshall, for once again being an ENcourager in my life. Don’t sweat the “Debbie Downers” of this world. Even though they may run you down for running, the only exercise they get is jumping to conclusions. And the ones who make it hard on you about work, find their only job satisfaction as being the Chairman of the Wet Blanket Society. So, you go, Marshall! Keep going and running and writing and drawing because that is the kindling to the fire that is your imagination, success, and happiness.
While I was out running this afternoon, I was thinking about how much this blog has encouraged me to not only start running, but to keep on going! I know the discouragers well…. They’ve smacked me around quite a few times. Yet it seems that if I stick to it, I come out on top. You have too! And that’s not going to change! I view discouragers as tests along my path — and when I keep doing what I know is right, I just give myself a gold star and move on!!
Hang in there, Marshall!!
Again… good stuff. Thank you.