If you are a long-time reader of my blog, you probably know a bit about my story: How I began training when I was seventeen, how I lost a ton of weight, and how I’ve loved fitness ever since.

But what you probably didn’t know is I tried to start training much earlier - at the age of fourteen. I remember the day so vividly like it was yesterday. A friend from my class had been training for a year, and he recommended I join him for a workout.

We finished school that day, I got back home to change my clothes, and I remember feeling anxious but enthusiastic. I had been overweight for a couple of years at that point, so I felt good about making a positive change for myself.

So, an hour or so later, my friend and I met in front of the gym, and he asked me, “Are you ready?” I told him I was and we walked in. I remember how we had to climb this narrow staircase to get to the gym, which was on the building’s second floor.

Anyway, my friend was in front of me, he showed his membership, and I was next. I paid for my pass, feeling anxiety build up inside me, and we took a right to the main workout area. Suddenly, I got so nervous I almost froze, unable to say a word. Several people were working out there. One person was doing bicep curls, another was squatting, and two guys were chatting by one of the machines. My friend went to the window to set his phone and water down. Meanwhile, I had no idea what to do.

I felt terrified. “My place isn’t here! What will these people think of me! I can barely lift the lightest dumbbell in the room!”

Unable to overcome that sudden rush of anxiety, I told my friend I needed to run out for a bit to grab something - which was a lie - and I left. Yep. I left the gym and ran back home, still feeling anxious. Of course, by then, I also felt guilty and disappointed in myself.

It was another three years before I stepped inside a gym and finally overcame my fears and anxieties.

So, what’s the point of my story? Well, it’s two-fold. First, I want to ask you: Are you letting fears dictate your life decisions and stop you from doing what you want to do?”

Second, I want my story to show you how much our fears can stop us. Had I overcome my fears initially, I would have started training three years earlier. Who knows what benefits I would have gotten from that.

We all have limiting beliefs and fears. And it’s okay to consider new things before getting started. But don’t let your thoughts turn into crippling anxiety. More importantly, don’t let fear stop you from trying new things. You don’t know what great roads new endeavors might take you on.

Thank you for reading! Until next week,
Philip

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