Results Don’t Care About Your Feelings: The Three Pillars of Forged by Freedom

Results don't care about your feelings: A Journey to Fitness and Freedom

Results don't care about your feelings. This phrase may initially sound harsh, but its intent is not to insult. It's a powerful reminder that results are earned through determination and action, not emotions or excuses. If you're looking to reclaim or elevate your fitness and discipline, understanding this message is crucial. In this blog post, I'll share my personal journey, the three pillars of Forged by Freedom: Strength, Discipline, and Freedom, and how these concepts can guide you back to greatness.

The Eye-Opening Truth: Results vs. Feelings

When I first heard the expression "results don’t care about your feelings," it hit me hard. I was once an elite athlete, excelling in wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). But life threw me for a loop. After a military injury that required a double discectomy (C5/6 and C6/7), I faced a setback that made me lose my discipline and, ultimately, my fitness. For two years, I was out of physical activity, and during that time, it would have been easy to wallow in self-pity.

But what helped me back to my feet was the realization that feeling bad for myself wouldn’t bring results. I had to take action. When emotions cloud our judgment, we often make excuses. But results are the product of hard work and commitment.

An inspiring weightlifting gym ready for action.

The Three Pillars of Forged by Freedom

The journey back to health and fitness led me to define what I call the three pillars of Forged by Freedom: Strength, Discipline, and Freedom. These pillars not only transform your physical state but also empower your mental and emotional well-being.

Strength: The Physical Foundation

Strength is more than just muscle. It's about resilience, the ability to push through physical and mental barriers. Rebuilding my strength involved a strategic approach to weight training and conditioning. Perhaps most importantly, I focused on progressive overload, gradually increasing the weight and intensity of my workouts. This principle is backed by research demonstrating that progressive overload leads to increased muscle strength and endurance.

Starting with lighter weights allowed me to rebuild confidence and proper form, ensuring sustainability. Anyone looking to boost their strength must find the right balance between challenging themselves and avoiding injury.

Close-up of weights ready for a workout session.

Discipline: The Core Contributor

If strength is the physical foundation, discipline is the bedrock that holds everything together. Discipline is the act of doing what you need to do, even when you don’t feel like it. It’s waking up early for a workout, meal prepping on weekends, or pushing through soreness to get better.

For me, discipline meant establishing a structured daily routine. I committed to training at least five days a week, regardless of my feelings about it. I developed rituals that made it easier to adhere to this routine, such as preparing my gym bag the night before and setting out my workout clothes. This reduced the barriers for getting started each day.

Studies show that establishing habits can take anywhere from 18 to 254 days, but consistency is key. Create small, achievable goals that lead to larger milestones over time. For example, start by committing to workout three days a week, then gradually increase as you gain momentum.

Freedom: The Ultimate Goal

Freedom is often viewed as the ultimate goal of physical training and self-discipline. But what does it really mean? For me, freedom is the ability to move freely, feel energetic, and live life on my own terms. When you are strong and disciplined, you empower yourself with choices.

After my two-year hiatus, I realized that I had to redefine my notion of freedom. It wasn’t just about lifting heavier weights; it was about mental and emotional liberation. I began to appreciate how good it felt to be able to physically express myself, whether competing in sports or simply enjoying outdoor activities with friends.

Imagine reclaiming your free will – not only can you enjoy daily activities more, but you can also compete and excel, just as I aimed for a world over-50 bench press record and preparation for world championships in no-gi BJJ.

Realizing Your Potential: A Personal Journey

At one point, I hit rock bottom, both physically and mentally. I had gone from being an elite athlete to someone who could barely climb a flight of stairs without feeling winded. The dramatic change made me confront the reality of my situation.

I realized I didn’t just miss the physical aspects of being fit; I missed the discipline and actions that came with it. These emotions forced me to hit the reset button. I began a comprehensive recovery plan that incorporated strength training, a balanced diet, and mental fortitude. Just 18 months post-recovery, I found myself at 9.4% body fat at 212 lbs, feeling stronger than ever.

This transformation went beyond aesthetics. It was a mix of mental clarity, renewed self-confidence, and the desire to inspire others. I want you to know that regardless of how far you may have fallen, it’s never too late to reclaim your freedom and achieve greatness.

Take Action: Your Path to Freedom Begins Now

If you’re ready to embark on a journey of transformation, the most important step is to take action. Results don't care about your feelings, but they do reward consistent effort. Establish a plan that outlines your goals, timelines, and the resources you need.

You might also consider enrolling in programs like Forged by Freedom Strength and Nutrition, a fitness solution designed to help you regain strength, discipline, and, ultimately, freedom.

Take the first small step toward your goals. Nothing can stop you but your own excuses.

Serene outdoor trail inviting exploration.

The Journey Forward

As I prepare for competitions and pursue my personal fitness goals, I regularly reflect on the journey that brought me here. I've learned that it's not the setbacks that define you, but the way you rise from them.

Remember, life will always throw challenges your way. It’s how you respond that truly matters. Embrace discipline today to reclaim your strength, and the freedom to live your life to the fullest will follow. The path won’t be easy, but I assure you, the results are worth the effort.

Your journey is just beginning. Believe in yourself and take that first step toward the life you deserve. Results don’t care about your feelings. They only care about your actions, so let’s get started!

The Importance of Community Support

One of the most significant aspects of my journey has been the support from my community. Surrounding myself with like-minded individuals has made a world of difference. Whether it's friends, family, or fellow fitness enthusiasts, having a support system can keep you motivated and accountable.

Finding Your Tribe

Finding the right community is essential. Look for groups that share your goals and values. This could be a local gym, an online forum, or even social media groups focused on fitness. Engaging with others who understand your struggles can provide encouragement and inspiration.

Sharing Your Journey

Don't hesitate to share your own journey. Whether through social media or in person, sharing your experiences can inspire others. It creates a cycle of motivation that benefits everyone involved. You never know who might be looking up to you as a source of strength.

Nutrition: Fueling Your Transformation

While strength and discipline are vital, nutrition plays a crucial role in your fitness journey. What you eat directly impacts your performance and recovery.

Building a Balanced Diet

Focus on a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients. Incorporate lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Meal prepping can help you stay on track and avoid unhealthy choices.

Hydration Matters

Don’t forget about hydration. Drinking enough water is essential for optimal performance. Aim for at least eight glasses a day, and more if you're active. Proper hydration can improve your energy levels and recovery time.

Setting Realistic Goals

Setting goals is a fundamental part of any fitness journey. However, it’s essential to make sure those goals are realistic and achievable.

SMART Goals

Consider using the SMART criteria for goal setting: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This approach helps you create clear and attainable objectives. For example, instead of saying, "I want to get fit," say, "I will work out four times a week for the next three months."

Celebrating Milestones

As you achieve your goals, take time to celebrate your milestones. Recognizing your progress can boost your motivation and keep you focused on the bigger picture.

Embracing the Journey

Finally, remember that fitness is a journey, not a destination. There will be ups and downs along the way. Embrace every moment, and don’t be too hard on yourself during setbacks.

Learning from Challenges

Each challenge presents an opportunity to learn and grow. Reflect on what went wrong and how you can improve. This mindset will help you develop resilience and keep moving forward.

Staying Committed

Commitment is key to long-term success. Even when motivation wanes, remind yourself of your goals and the reasons you started. Consistency will lead to results, and in time, you'll see the fruits of your labor.

Your journey is just beginning. Believe in yourself and take that first step toward the life you deserve. Results don’t care about your feelings. They only care about your actions, so let’s get started!