75 Hard Halfway Point: A Battle Within

As I reach the halfway mark of my 75 Hard Challenge, I find myself standing at a crossroads, experiencing an internal struggle that I never anticipated. The journey has been anything but easy, and my recent reflections resonate with the experiences of others who've embarked on this challenging path, including Kyle "The Captain" Creek, as discussed in Andy Frisella's podcast.

Kyle shared his past attempts at 75 Hard, where he often made it to around 21 days before faltering for various reasons. These reasons usually revolved around the lure of his former lifestyle, one that didn't involve rigid schedules, strict workouts, and a mountain of daily water consumption. As I stand at this juncture in the program, I too find myself grappling with conflicting thoughts and emotions.

A Battle Within

One part of me questions the continuance of the challenge. It whispers, "Why am I still doing this when I could easily enjoy a drink with friends, not have to structure my life around two 45-minute workouts each day, not have to commit to daily reading, and not consume a gallon of water every single day?" This part of me longs for the simple pleasures of relaxing with a glass of whiskey on my deck while basking in the summer weather. It yearns for the freedom to sleep in and not worry about the relentless clock, especially on days when the weather forces me to venture out for workouts.

The other part of me, however, speaks of the remarkable transformations I've witnessed since embarking on this journey. I notice the clarity and smoothness of my skin, the seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep, and the ease with which I rise each morning. This side of me emphasizes the productivity that has blossomed from daily scheduling and the surge of energy and mental acuity following each workout. My husband and I have bonded during our daily walks, leading to meaningful conversations about our present and future. This half of me is grounded, focused, and confident in my ability to define and achieve significant life goals.

Both halves of my internal struggle are vying for supremacy, but the latter is emerging as the victor. I find myself standing at a pivotal moment, akin to the peak of a mountain. I must decide whether to venture into the uncharted territory on the other side or return to my comfort zone. Going back would mean embracing a familiar but lackluster life marked by anxiety, uncertainty, and lethargy. In contrast, moving forward offers the promise of clarity, opportunity, and a defined path for my life.

Challenging Myself

Prior to 75 Hard, I grappled with self-doubt, hesitation, and procrastination. However, the program has challenged me to push my limits, face my fears, and take leaps of faith. A notable example is my newfound willingness to incorporate running into my workouts three days a week. I've never been a runner, but I've discovered the resilience to endure running sessions, even if it's just for a mile. When I'm tempted to stop, I set goals for myself, pushing my boundaries and embracing a newfound sense of determination.

Gaining Knowledge and Insight

Beyond the physical changes, I've enriched my mind through the books I've read. This knowledge extends to my business, faith, and my long-held dream of attending medical school. I'm applying the wisdom I've gained to approach situations with a newfound perspective. As a doula, I've learned how to support pregnant mothers more effectively. I've made headway in writing my personal statement for medical school, taking a monumental step towards my lifelong aspiration. Most importantly, I've cultivated a deep trust in God's plan for my life, accepting the outcomes as they unfold.

Physical Progress

While my physical transformation might not be dramatic, I can observe muscle toning and an increased strength that propels me to handle heavier weights. In 35 days, I've shifted from weighing 135bls. to 132 lbs. This change serves as a reminder not to fixate on the number on the scale but to prioritize how I feel and the fit of my clothes.

Conclusion

As I reflect on this journey, I hope it inspires you in some way. The path to self-improvement and personal growth is fraught with challenges, but the rewards are abundant. I'll be back next week with more updates as I continue to push myself through the second half of the 75 Hard Challenge. Thank you for joining me on this journey!