Mastering Exercise in a Comparison World

Last week, I had the privilege of sharing an episode from the EZ Conversations podcast with Katie Bramlett. Katie co-founded WeShape, which focuses on a unique workout plan for individuals and factors in biomechanics while helping individuals with their mental and emotional health. In this episode, Katie shares the four core tenets of WeShape, i.e. connecting with the body, community, intentions, and beliefs. The four pillars that WeShape uses to differentiate itself resonate with me. As someone who has relied heavily on exercise to cultivate energy and focus throughout the day, I know the value of connecting with my body and paying more attention to what my body needs, and that often means taking rest days when needed. Similarly, the community allows me to build support and a shared sense of purpose. My intentions and beliefs ensure that I am constantly aligned with my goals and checking in with myself to understand if my intentions are consistent with my beliefs and continued growth.

Katie and I also discussed the toxic diet culture that we often gravitate towards for a quick fix. The tendency for a quick fix is something I wanted to expand on further. I was reading The Daily Laws by Robert Greene, and (I am a big fan, having read the 48 Laws of Power with Mastery in the cue) he talks about the value of putting in the time and effort in any pursuit. He highlights how failure is crucial for us to learn from. We often want to bypass the discipline, diligence, and effort required to achieve something and settle for the external display - a quick win. Unfortunately, the quick win is unsustainable and something we cannot reproduce. We need to build the skills that can be transferrable or allow us to find creative solutions. Now, why is all this relevant? We need to have a similar view of exercise and our fitness goals. A fad diet may give us a quick win, but to build a healthy lifestyle, we need to put in the time and effort to recognize what works for our body and what does not.

With Mastery, it is not only about putting in the time and effort; it is also about having the willingness and courage to keep trying and being content with making mistakes. Whether one's pursuit is exercise or some other endeavour, trying to play it safe only allows us to see the full extent of our potential and growth. Robert Greene also talks about training where one reaches a plateau; no matter how much effort one exerts, the return is limited. We must continue challenging ourselves so our brain and body can transform. Therefore, in this week's edition of EZ Reflections, I wanted to share my thoughts on mastery and resources that allow you to think about the things you seek to master and how you are challenging yourself. Are you looking for a quick win or a sustainable plan for the long term?

1. Understanding Mastery: Greene defines mastery as the culmination of years of dedicated practice, relentless pursuit of improvement, and a deep understanding of one's craft. He emphasizes the importance of apprenticeship, where individuals learn from mentors and immerse themselves in the fundamentals of their chosen field. This stage is crucial for building a solid foundation and acquiring the skills to excel.

2. The 10,000-Hour Rule: A concept famously associated with mastery is the "10,000-hour rule," popularized by Malcolm Gladwell in his book "Outliers." This rule posits that it takes roughly 10,000 hours of deliberate practice to achieve mastery in any domain. While the exact number may vary, the underlying principle remains relevant: mastery demands significant time and effort.

3. Applying Mastery to Exercise: Mastery goes beyond physical strength and skill. It encompasses a holistic approach integrating mental focus, emotional resilience, and strategic planning. Here's how Greene's principles can be applied to exercise:

• Integrating Mind and Body: Greene underscores the significance of integrating mind and body in pursuing mastery. Exercise involves cultivating mental focus, mindfulness, emotional balance, physical strength, and flexibility. Meditation, visualization, and breathwork can enhance performance and promote overall well-being.

• Continual Learning and Adaptation: Mastery is a dynamic continual learning and adaptation process. Exercise means staying curious, exploring new modalities, and remaining open to feedback and experimentation. Whether incorporating cross-training or trying out different sports, the journey toward mastery is marked by ongoing evolution and refinement.

Sources:

• Greene, Robert. "Mastery." Penguin Books, 2012.

• Gladwell, Malcolm. "Outliers: The Story of Success." Little, Brown and Company, 2008.

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