How to Handle Failures on the Way to Physical Perfection
The beginning of the iron game
Once men and women finally decide to make a change in their lifestyle and start to train at a gym, some have taken their first steps into a future fitness journey while others drop out way too early. After a period of three to four months you’ll find yourself moving in the right direction towards achieving your goals. One goal might be to pack on more muscle, while another goal might be just getting in better shape. There will undoubtedly be failures along the way. Almost everyone experiences setbacks. This article is mainly focusing on the psychological issue related to performance anxiety.
Fitness should strengthen you, not break you down
This issue is mainly concerning beginners and especially the younger generation, those typically in a phase of molding their identity and confidence.
When you get hooked on bodybuilding or fitness some might slowly start to compare their results to other more experienced athletes, for example at the gym or competitors in shows. The result can be self-doubt or criticism of your own physique. You might feel like you’re not good enough or the results you’ve achieved are nothing compared to others in the gym or a competitor on the stage.
The situation can become unhealthy and create negative spirals which can cause a lot of anxiety. In these cases it’s important to take some steps back and keep the focus on your inner self and realize that you’re not competing against any other people.
Pros compete against each other. They know what they are up against as they have been in the game for a long period of time. On the other hand, newcomers and some advanced trainers in the gym, too, are mainly competing against earlier versions of themselves.
So change your mindset and don’t think too much. It’s not life or death, so stop worrying and carry on. Make your plans to achieve your goals and get the most out of your workouts. This is your game!
Everyone has a different set of genetics – accept yours
All people have both flaws and strong points in their physiques. With a strong mind you will probably surpass those with a better genetic structure simply by having a strong inner mental idea of where you want to go with your physique. This will give you the strength to keep on going and going to achieve your goal.
In other words, just because you have the best set of tools to build a house doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be able to achieve that goal. Having the tools doesn’t mean you’ll build the best or the largest house. No, it’s more often the person with the best plan and the ability to follow that plan to its conclusion who gets the best result in the end!
Last words
Understand that Rome wasn’t built in one day, so take your time and move slowly to pack on quality muscle. And, remember, this is no one else’s journey but your own!