As summer winds down and the back-to-school buzz kicks in, there’s this beautiful return to structure—a familiar rhythm I both love and need. The lazy lake days and spontaneous outings are slowly giving way to planners, meal prep, and consistent bedtimes.
And while the season is shifting, so am I.
Next week officially marks my 40th straight week of CrossFit. FORTY! That’s almost an entire year of showing up—through holidays, stress, exhaustion, injury, sickness, work chaos, mom life, you name it. Blood? Not much. But sweat? Buckets. And definitely some tears along the way.
But here’s the thing… all of it is paying off.
What 40 Weeks Has Brought Me:
- I’m down 15 pounds since January.
- I’m cutting body fat and finally seeing that slow but steady muscle growth.
- I’m doing deadlifts WITH weight on the bar. Anyone with a history of lower back pain will tell you how incredible this is.
- I’m getting closer to that first pull-up—and wow, is that going to be a sweet victory when it happens.
- Just last week, I back squatted 70 lbs. And you better believe I’m celebrating that.
Funny story from that day: I back squatted 55 lbs. thinking it was my absolute max. Then, without realizing it, I lifted 65 lbs. on my next set—my partner had forgotten to remove the extra weight she added for her round. When she pointed it out, I was stunned. It hadn’t even felt heavier. So I thought, “Why not?” and added another 5 lbs. Boom—70 lbs. Fifteen pounds more than I thought I could do… because I believed I couldn’t. Our minds, man. Wild.
And to think—I almost skipped that day. That one workout turned into a huge win and a massive confidence booster.
Watch it happen:
When Consistency Turns to Craving
I’m working out 4–5 days a week now, and my body is not only handling it—it’s thriving on it. This isn’t just about the scale or the barbell (though, let’s be honest, those feel pretty great too). It’s about what these 40 weeks have taught me:
- That consistency matters more than perfection.
- That the tiny choices you make every day become who you are.
- That the strongest transformation isn’t physical—it’s in your mindset.
Also? I actually crave working out now. Sometimes I’ll hit a morning session and by the end of the day I catch myself thinking, “Dang, I kinda want to go again.” I know better than to overdo it, but it blows my mind that I feel this way.
Even running is feeling better. Some of our CrossFit workouts include running, and after years of struggling with back issues, I’m finally bringing it back into my routine. I used to be a runner when I was younger—it was my go-to stress reliever. While I’m not quite running a full mile nonstop (yet) without feeling like I’m going to pass out, I can feel it coming. That day will be here soon.
And maybe the best part? The confidence I’ve gained through all this is incredible.
The Power of Sharing
Honestly, sometimes I feel a little silly posting my workouts or sweaty selfies or “look what I did!” moments. But then… someone will DM me. Out of the blue. And tell me that my journey helped them get started. That it gave them hope. That it reminded them they’re not alone. That it continues to inspire them.
Check out this Facebook DM I recently received:
“You are killing it with consistency…You are inspiring me to work out all winter in the off season.”
And that? That’s why I keep sharing. That’s why I keep showing up.
Because this journey is so much more than just mine.
My Fall Focus Goals
With Fall almost upon us, I’ve got some fresh goals in mind—not just for a stronger body, but for a stronger mindset.
90-Day TV Detox — No television (with the exception of the occasional cozy movie night with my kids). Instead, I’m trading screen time for:
- Personal growth books
- Motivational podcasts
- Inspirational audio
- Alcohol Through Year-End — I enjoyed some drinks this summer, but I’m recommitting to sobriety for the last 4 months of the year.
- Create More Structure — Because I’ve realized: I’m at my best when my days have rhythm and intention.
“The things you do when no one is watching matter the most. Show up for yourself. Hold yourself accountable. That’s where the magic happens.”
Even simple things—like making my bed in the morning—help me start the day on the right foot. Those small actions set the tone.
What Else Is New?
- My daughter has been absolutely crushing it in her Junior CrossFit summer program, which runs three days a week. It’s such an incredible program, and I’m beyond grateful for it.
- One of my best friends joined CrossFit too! She’s been showing up twice a week consistently, and it’s been amazing to watch her gain strength and confidence. I love getting to share this journey with her and cheer her on as she levels up.
- And personally, I’ve realized that some of the things I used to enjoy just aren’t doing it for me anymore. Nights out, bar scenes, casual drinks—they don’t hold the same appeal. That shift is okay. But it’s also a little lonely as I navigate finding new go-to activities that don’t involve alcohol.
Motivation On the Go: PepTalk App
I recently discovered an app I love called Peptalk. If you’re into motivational content like I am, check it out! It’s packed with inspiring speakers, quick videos, audio, and quotes. You can even create your own playlists—perfect for that early morning mindset boost or midday recharge.
So here’s to the next 40 weeks. To showing up, sweating it out, tuning in, and maybe even inspiring a few more people along the way.
Let’s go.
What’s one habit you’ve stuck with that’s changed your life? I’d love to hear your wins—drop them in the comments or shoot me a message!
Journey With Focus 
Leave a comment