Written by Victoria Scott, Fitness Expert, Founder Sixpack Chick Fitness, Certified Trainer and Nutrition Coach, Fitness World Champion 35+
We’ve all felt it. When we’ve started something and after a few weeks… we wanted to give up. How do you know if you should keep going, especially when you hit one, two, or 10 roadblocks, and it seems like you’ll never get to your goal?
I know. I’ve been there many times. Frustrated. Tears running down my cheeks. You don’t see the light at the end.
My super-human senses tell me you’re still as passionate about your goals as I am about mine, so remember, everything great takes time.
No one—I repeat, no one—takes a ride straight to the top. When you peel back the facade of perfection, you see all the bumps in the road that are not only normal, but expected along the journey.
How do you find that extra “umph” of inspiration in those “wall-kicking” moments?
Here are three strategies to help you stay on track and not give up, even when faced with obstacles.
"It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when your plate is already full, but that doesn’t mean you should abandon your goals."
1. Manage Overwhelm by Setting Realistic, Achievable Goals
For women over 40, balancing work, family, and personal commitments often adds to the complexity. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when your plate is already full, but that doesn’t mean you should abandon your goals. Instead, set small, realistic goals that fit seamlessly into your daily routine. If you struggle with knowing what a realistic goal is and how to set up a program to hit that target, this is where an experienced coach comes into play.
Instead of aiming for a complete lifestyle overhaul, start with manageable changes like a 20-minute walk each day or replacing one sugary snack with a healthier option.
TRY THIS: Consider using a planner or fitness app to schedule and track your workouts, which can help you stay organized and committed. Focus on the habit, not the end goals. When you develop the habits, the results will always be there.
2. Focus Beyond the Scale: Celebrate Non-Scale Victories
Many women feel discouraged when they don’t see immediate changes on the scale. It’s important to recognize and celebrate other signs of progress. Pay attention to how your clothes fit, your increased energy levels, improved sleep quality, and enhanced mood… and track it! These non-scale victories are just as important and can be powerful motivators.
TRY THIS: I encourage my 1-1 Coaching Clients @sixpackchickfitness to keep a journal to document these changes that can provide a tangible reminder of how far they’ve come, reinforcing their commitment to their fitness journey. List three wins daily, no matter how small, to reinforce a growth mindset.
3. Build a Support Network: Find Your Fitness Community
Feeling isolated in your fitness journey is a common challenge, especially when those around you aren’t on the same path. To counter this, seek out like-minded individuals who share your goals. Having a support network can provide encouragement, accountability, and a sense of belonging, making it easier to stay motivated and consistent. For example, my program Six Pack Chick Fitness is a remote coaching program, yet we’re able to create this community experience for our 1-1 clients around the world! They connect with each other in a private Meta (formerly Facebook) group, on Instagram, in weekly group coaching calls hosted by myself and our coaching team, as well as bi-annual in-person retreats.
TRY THIS: Social media can also be a great resource. Follow fitness influencers who resonate with you and engage with their followers. I’ve personally met some of my best friends through fitness communities and eventually meeting up in person. How cool is that?
Remember, fat loss and muscle gain are really hard and slow processes. But, it’s worth it. When it comes to your health, let go of perfection. What matters most is you. Your growth. Your well being. And most importantly—daily action.
Small steps forward every day is progress. Plus, as you learn what your body is truly capable of doing, feeling, and being, you inspire and contribute more to others—and that is something truly irreplaceable that will keep the next person going.
