Why you are not hitting fitness goals

I was going to the gym 3–4 days a week, taking 2–3 mile walks a couple times a week, and felt like I was really putting in the work. At my annual check-up, I weighed in around 260 lbs. When my doctor asked about my activity level, I confidently said, “I work out more than most people I know. I lift, I walk, I stay pretty active most days.”

His response? “Man, 260? Maybe it’s time to work in some jogs—and take a look at your diet.” he joked, but the message landed.

Now, my doctor and I have a pretty straightforward dialogue around my health and goals. But in that moment, I was a little annoyed—even mad. On the drive home though, I really thought about it. And he was right.

I may work out more than most people I know—but I wasn’t anywhere near my goals. Maybe my workouts weren’t intense enough. Maybe I was just going through the motions. I had to get honest with myself:

• Half-effort gym sessions aren’t going to cut it.

• A late-night bowl of cereal before bed isn’t going to cut it.

• Smashing a Philly cheesesteak, large fries, and a milkshake for dinner definitely isn’t going to cut it.

  
  

If you're not where you want to be physically and mentally, I’d bet it all comes back to one thing—your diet.

The #1 reason most people fail on their fitness journey is food. You might track meals for a day, a week, maybe even two—but then the weekend hits and you eat like an unleashed wild animal, undoing all your hard work.

If you truly want to transform your body and mind, you're going to have to sacrifice some food choices. Don’t let a donut, cookie, or milkshake win a negotiation with your goals.

Take control of your decisions. Don't let your weak mind win.

Your future self will thank you for it.