One of the hardest things I’ve been working on lately isn’t just lifting heavier weights or sticking to my cut—it’s learning how to validate my own progress at the gym. If you’re like me, you’ve probably had moments where you feel like no matter how much you do, it’s not enough. I tend to beat myself up for not thinking I’m pushing hard enough, even when I’m drenched in sweat and my muscles are shaking from the effort. But whenever I’m working out with someone else, they remind me just how hard I’m going. It’s funny how easy it is to doubt ourselves when, from the outside, others see the strength we don’t.
Recently, I’ve realized that relying on others to affirm my efforts, while comforting, isn’t sustainable for long-term growth—mentally or physically. I need to acknowledge for myself how much work I put in at the gym without waiting for someone else to tell me I’m doing great. Self-validation is key, and it’s something I’m actively working on. By recognizing my own progress, I’m not just building muscle, I’m also building mental resilience.
This shift in mindset is already changing the way I approach bodybuilding. By focusing on self-validation, I’m slowly learning to enjoy the process more, rather than constantly criticizing myself for not being “good enough.” I can take pride in what I accomplish during each workout, no matter how small the victory. And by doing this, I’m also hoping to create a more positive relationship with the gym and the journey of bodybuilding. When I stop tearing myself down and acknowledge my hard work, I believe I’ll be able to push myself even further because I’m not wasting mental energy on self-doubt.
But this isn’t just about the gym. Learning to self-validate my accomplishments here is something I hope will affect other areas of my life. Whether it’s with my career, my relationships, or even my personal goals, being able to say, “I’m proud of what I did today,” is a skill I want to carry with me everywhere.
At the end of the day, working on my physical health is only one part of the equation. Taking care of my mental health is just as important. Learning to validate my efforts and recognize how hard I’m pushing myself is part of that journey. It’s not always easy, but by focusing on self-validation, I’m hoping to make the gym a more enjoyable space and a place where I can celebrate the progress I’m making—inside and out.
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