There’s a lesson I’ve learned in my years of running a gym, working with mentors, and pushing my own limits: the importance of defining what I really want in life. It sounds simple, but I’ve seen this make or break people, whether it’s in their health, business, or personal lives. So here’s my challenge to you—define what success looks like for you, specifically. Only then will you stop spinning your wheels and start moving toward something meaningful.
Health, Wealth, and Happiness — Your Way
Most of us are after the same three things: health, wealth, and happiness. Yet, these words are so big and vague that without a personal definition, it’s like trying to hit a target in the dark. If you’re in the gym, working hard, pushing through routines, but you haven’t stopped to think about what “health” means to you, how do you know if you’re moving toward it?
This isn’t just about fitness. If you’re working, grinding, and hustling every day but don’t know what kind of “wealth” you’re trying to achieve, you’re likely going to end up frustrated or burned out. For me, wealth isn’t about some dollar figure or some arbitrary milestone. It’s about freedom—freedom to explore, to grow, to do the things that make me feel alive outside of the gym.
Why You Need a Clear Destination
Picture this: you’re driving, trying to get to a destination, but you don’t have a map, a GPS, or even an address. You’re just driving around, hoping you get there eventually. That’s what it’s like to pursue goals that aren’t clearly defined. When you’re working without a vision, it’s easy to feel like you’re making no real progress—even if you’re doing all the right things.
Defining your goals changes the game. It’s about getting specific. If your goal in fitness is to stay mobile and healthy so you can play with your grandkids 20 years from now, then don’t chase someone else’s ideal or aim for what looks good on social media. Define that goal: "I want to stay active, strong, and capable as I age." Now, each workout becomes a step in that direction. It’s not just random effort; it’s progress toward your unique vision of success.
Write It Down and Watch the Stress Go Away
Here’s my advice: sit down, and with no distractions, write down what health, wealth, and happiness look like for you. Don’t hold back, and don’t write what you think you should want. Focus on what will genuinely bring meaning and value to your life. Put it down on paper, and keep it visible.
For me, this practice has made a huge difference. My goal is simple: I want to feel strong, capable, and ready for whatever life throws at me outside of the gym. I don’t care about hitting new PRs or meeting a certain aesthetic. I’m in the gym to challenge myself so I can live my life with freedom and confidence. I also use this time to clear my head, build resilience, and gain the mental clarity I need to face challenges outside the gym.
Start Working Toward Your Definition of Success
If you’re tired of feeling stuck or like you’re not making progress, take this to heart. Stop chasing after someone else’s goals or society’s standards of what you should be. Define what success means to you—whether it’s in fitness, finances, or personal growth. Make it personal, write it down, and start taking small steps toward it.
When you define your own path, you’ll feel the difference. It’s no longer about endless effort without results. You’ll know exactly where you’re headed, and each step will feel like real progress. So take a moment, put it all down, and set a clear course for yourself.
To hear more on this topic check out my quickcast, "Define Your Success."
Listen here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-whiteboard-brief/id1562817385?i=1000676812904
