Mid-Summer Momentum: Progress, Pendulums & Pivotal Moments

My last post was June 18th, and just like that—summer is in full swing. The past few weeks have been filled with an eventful 4th of July, some hiking, boating, and lots of working out. I’ve been consistently hitting the gym about four days a week, and my workouts are feeling solid.

This year has felt like a bit of a swaying pendulum between workouts and nutrition. Lately, I’ve been struggling a little on the nutrition side—but not in the way you might expect. After months of kicking ass, saying no to quick fixes, and choosing what I want most over what I want now, I’ve finally loosened the reins a bit. A drink here, a little indulgence there, and honestly? I’m okay with that.

What’s cool is that without even thinking about it, my mornings through late afternoons are super consistent. It’s those spontaneous summer evenings out that tend to throw me off. And that’s okay. Because even when I reach for something indulgent, the habit I’ve built is so engrained that I naturally just take a few bites rather than going all in. That’s progress.

So what’s the issue then? Right now I’m in maintenance mode, but I’ve actually been struggling to hit my maintenance calorie targets. Instead of holding steady, I’m still losing weight. As of today, I’m officially down 14.2 lbs since January 8th! 🎉

With the summer heat, I’m finding that I’m just not as hungry—and I’ve realized I need to get more food in earlier in the day to avoid ending up with a big calorie gap at night. It’s a work in progress. But again, the habits I worked so hard to build are sticking, and that’s something to celebrate.

On the other side of that pendulum? My workouts. And let me tell you—yesterday was a pivotal moment.

Two days ago, I had a tough workout and followed it up with a 3-mile walk with a friend. I wasn’t even planning to work out yesterday. But by the end of the workday? I was craving it. The heat was thick, the workout was brutal, and I could not wait to sweat.

Mid-workout, I had a moment where I could feel that my body is getting stronger. And it felt amazing. Wall walks were on the workout list—something I normally modify with inchworms or shoulder taps. But this time? I did half wall walks. And they were HARD. But I did them. And I was so proud.

Today, I’m sore. But it’s the good kind of sore—the kind that tells you something’s changing. The kind that doesn’t scream, “Call your chiropractor,” but whispers, “You’re getting stronger.”

Lately, I’ve also noticed something else. When life gets messy or heavy, when things aren’t going as planned—those moments are starting to fuel me instead of derail me. When life gives you lemons? Sometimes they make damn good fuel for pushing through workouts and focusing on yourself. There’s something powerful about taking that frustration, that overwhelm, and turning it into something that makes you stronger.

And maybe the biggest change of all? The confidence I’m gaining through all of this is incredible. Not just in how I look, but in how I show up—for myself, for my kids, and in life. I’m proving to myself that I can do hard things, that consistency does pay off, and that I’m capable of way more than I once believed.

So here I am. Sun-soaked, a little tired, slightly underfed, very sore… and absolutely just getting started.

If you’re in a season where progress feels quiet or imperfect—you’re not alone. The confidence, the strength, the mindset… it’s built one small decision at a time. I’d love to hear what you’re working on right now. Are you maintaining, building, restarting? Shoot me a message or come hang out with me on Instagram @JourneyWithFocus. Let’s keep showing up—even when it’s messy.

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About Me

Hi, I’m Rachel Jefferies!
I’m on a mission to transform my lifestyle through fitness, nutrition, and intentional living. After discovering CrossFit in late 2024, I’ve learned to challenge myself in new ways, grow mentally and physically, and stay focused on progress—not perfection. This blog is where I share real stories, lessons, and inspiration from my journey. I’m so glad you’re here—let’s grow together!