The Resistance is Real

It’s 6:15 am. I just finished my morning walk.

I wish I could say I popped out of bed filled with motivation. The truth is, I’ve neglected my exercise routine for the last year. I set goals, and I fall short.

The resistance is real.

Last week, there was a morning where I literally sat on the end of the bed with one sock in my hand, staring at the wall, hoping the need to exercise would just evaporate.

I realized that relying on willpower wasn't working. I had to outsmart my own resistance. I made two tiny changes:

1. The Setup: Before bed, I put my socks in my shoes and placed them right where my feet hit the floor.

2. The Reward: I stopped having coffee first. If I drink coffee before the walk, I often talk myself out of going. Now, I set the timer on the machine. The coffee brews while I walk. It's my reward for returning.

Why share these mundane details?

Because this morning's negotiation feels like the early days of navigating sobriety. 

Back then, the internal battle was constant. It was exhausting. I felt like I was fighting with myself all day long.

The breakthrough happened when I learned to create distance. I realized the cravings and the resistance were just thoughts. They were noisy, but they weren't me. And they would pass if I just kept moving.

If you are in the middle of that battle right now—whether it's with alcohol, a relationship, or just getting out of bed—I want to remind you that you are brave for even showing up to the fight.

When you feel paralyzed, don't try to think your way out of it. Move your way out of it. Take any physical action to break the spell. Walk around the block. Do the dishes. Put on one sock.

Get your body in motion, and your mind will eventually follow.

Keep walking,

Terry

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