Lessons From The 8 Strong Challenge:
Beyond the challenge
This week is the final week of our 8 Strong Challenge, and here’s what we’ve learned over the past 7 weeks:
How establishing a strong purpose and a powerful why will fuel our fitness journey even when motivation fades.
How our identity can either hold us back or propel us forward.
How awareness precedes change, and taking ownership over our actions is key to growth.
How important it is to build resilience, so when we face obstacles (because we will) they won't tear us down.
How to maximize your training to reach your personal fitness goals.
How to recover effectively and come back stronger.
How to fuel your body in order to live and perform at your best.
This purpose of this challenge was to create a launching point. To give you all the tools and support you need to be fully in control of your own health and fitness, and finally see the results you are looking for.
So yes, the end is approaching, but so is the beginning.
So now we answer the ultimate question: "How do we put it all together?"
And the answer to this could be different for everyone, but here are a few things to consider when doing so:
Don't obsess, reflect. Learning to reflect on your past is powerful tool. It’s the way we learn what’s working and what’s not. It helps us course-correct, grow, and build better habits. But here’s the thing: Reflection is not the same as rumination. And rumination is a nasty habit that is surprisingly easy to get stuck in. So if your thoughts sound like a constant loop of “I should have…” or “If only I had…” Then that’s not growth — that’s getting trapped by your past.
Pick the low hanging fruit first. Some habits are going to be easily implemented, and others might be more difficult. We would recommend starting off with the easy ones. Why? Because if you start with a win, you will feel more motivated to keep going and eventually do more.
The tool is not the goal, it's just the tool. For example, if you goal is to be more active, you might choose to start tracking your steps. But if you find yourself getting obsessive, or stressed out about hitting your targets, remember that the original goal was to be more active, not see a specific number on your watch at the end of the day.
Make it fit. Your approach to fitness and health should fit your life, not the other way around. What works for someone else might not work for you—and that’s okay. Build a plan that supports your schedule and your priorities. When it’s aligned, it’s sustainable.
Practice self-compassion. Mistakes are part of growth, and if you never made them, then you wouldn't be where you are today.