Phase One: Consciousness. The first step to getting fitter is to make the conscious decision to get healthy. While the initial thought process takes 2-3 seconds, it takes about a month to form the habits that help you reach your goals. The key to this phase is to stick with it. Although during your initial couple of days you may become “weal minded,” the longer you stick it out, the more exercise will become a part of your life. Which leads us to Phase Two.
Phase Two: Self Doubt. Doubt is the first step towards the evil of all of your fitness goals, quitting. It would be disingenuous for me to tell you to not doubt yourself. . . we all do it. The key to this phase is to meet your self doubt head on. No matter how long you exercise, some form of doubt will creep up every now and again. Self doubt remains a part of the developmental process. Your main focus is to acknowledge it, embrace it, and overcome it as quickly as possible. Allow self doubt to linger, does little more than to allow it to stifle your goals.
Phase Three: Self Actualization. Once you have made exercise a habit, and have started to believe in yourself, you enter this third phase. Your mind and body begin to connect. . . .you begin to understand that the limits you place on yourself are only in your mind. . . .and you start to visualize, both subjectively and objectively, the things you are seeking to obtain. Your workouts now become a catalyst in all areas of your life: work, school, relationships, etc.
Phase Four: The Tribe. The fourth phase now involves your association with other like minded people. Conscious decisions now become subconscious ones. You avoid unhealthy habits, are continuing in your regimented exercise routine, and find yourself becoming an inspiration to others.
Phase Five: The Infinite Loop. The fifth phase is the never ending cycle. Although initially the first four phases were a chore, during this phase you move seamlessly back and forth through the phases each time you make a conscious decision to take on a new task. Want to run a 5K, a marathon, or do a Tough Mudder? The process starts over. Now, however, you have an understanding that you can accomplish your goal with just a little effort.