The Strategy No One Wants—but Everyone Needs

The worst part about being “in shape” is realizing you’re only in shape for the things you already do.

You can run miles, lift weights, and knock out burpees—and still be taken down by something entirely reasonable. Life is rude that way.

Case in point: I decided to get back into Pilates.

When I’m consistent with Pilates, everything improves. My legs and core are stronger. I’m a better runner because I don’t get fatigued as quickly. I’m less sore after long runs. I feel balanced, capable, and—this is important—slightly smug about my life choices.

But then I fell out of the habit.

So, I restarted. Gently. Responsibly. Just once a week.

And Pilates responded by absolutely wrecking me.

The first week, I did a 20-minute Peloton Pilates workout and walked like a newborn deer for four days. The second week, I was sore for three days. By the third week, I was still sore—but noticeably less dramatic about it.

That’s the lesson. Nothing changed because I went harder. Nothing changed because I made a bold declaration.

Everything changed because I showed up again.

Consistency matters—not because it’s glamorous, but because it works. Success isn’t built in big breakthroughs—it’s built in small, repeatable actions.

Here’s what consistency looks like when you’re building real, sustainable success:

• Do the work even when it’s unremarkable. Progress is quiet. Success shows up when you do.

• Show up more often than you feel inspired. Motivation fades. Habits carry you forward.

• Let small improvements compound. Tiny gains add up faster than you think.

Consistency isn’t flashy. It doesn’t make great highlight reels. But it’s how success actually happens.

Not all at once—just again, and again, and again.