It’s with great difficulty that on what should have been a day of great accomplishment – Day 76 of Hard 75 – I am instead finding myself in new cycle of failing to complete this task once again! With the 30 day split between Phase 1 and Phase 2, Hard 75 has become more like Exodus 90 (IYKYK) and it even incorporates the cold showers in Phase 1. Next they’ll ask you to turn off screens (which there was barely time for anyway with all the extra tasks!).

I’ve been knocked down. Following a back injury, caused by a misalignment of a vertebrae possibly caused by an ongoing foot issue (still need to get that checked out), the flu hit me hard, forcing me to take some downtime and, ultimately, bringing my Hard 75 streak to an end only a few days into Phase 2. For those unfamiliar, Hard 75 is a mental toughness challenge that requires unwavering consistency: two workouts a day, 10 pages of reading, drinking a gallon of water, sticking to a diet, and no alcohol. Missing even one component means starting over.

Well, I missed more than one. Between the flu symptoms and the need to let my body recover, there was no way I could power through. And you know what? That’s okay. This experience has reminded me that failing isn’t the end—it’s part of the process.

The Weight of Progress

Let’s rewind to where I started. When I began Hard 75, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’ve done my fair share of challenges before, but this one tested me in ways I hadn’t anticipated. The structure, the discipline, the sheer effort required every single day—it was a grind.

But here’s the thing: I made progress. Real, measurable progress. I’m a few pounds lighter than when I started. A lot of that, I’m sure, is thanks to intermittent fasting (IF), which became a cornerstone of my daily routine. It’s amazing how much clarity you gain when you simplify your approach to food and focus on fueling your body with intention.

Beyond the physical changes, I’ve learned a lot about myself. The way I handle stress, the importance of prioritizing recovery, and the value of consistency in even the smallest actions—it all adds up.

Failure as a Stepping Stone

I worked through my back issues and managed to stay on track. But when the flu hit and I had to stop, and it felt like a setback. But as I reflect on it, I see it differently now. Failing Hard 75 wasn’t the failure—it was the lesson. Every misstep is an opportunity to learn, grow, and come back stronger.

Too often, we think of failure as the end of the road. In reality, it’s a step on the path to success. Starting over doesn’t mean I’m starting from scratch. I’m starting from experience.

By the way, this is my fourth failure with Hard 75! 

A New Beginning

So, what’s next? Once I’m back from vacation in January, I’ll be starting Hard 75 again. This time, I’m even more determined to complete the full 75 or 90 day training cycle found in this program. I’ve already proven to myself that I can handle the structure, the discipline, and the grind. I just need to NOT GET SICK! My first attempt was knocked off track by my first encounter with COVID at 38 days into the 75 day cycle back in March of 2021.

But I’m not waiting until January to get back on track. Starting this week (the flu lingers!), I’m picking up the habits that have carried me this far:

• Reading 10 pages a day: Keeping my mind sharp and focused.
• Drinking a gallon of water daily: Staying hydrated and energized.
• Two workouts a day: Easing back into it with intention.
• Intermittent fasting: Continuing to simplify my eating habits.
• No alcohol: Because clarity is worth it.

Even though I’ve hit pause on Hard 75 (using the app and recording everything daily), these habits are part of my life now. They’re not tied to a challenge—they’re tied to me.

A Journey Worth Taking

If you’re reading this and thinking about starting a challenge like Hard 75—or any journey that pushes you out of your comfort zone—know this: it’s worth it. The journey is where the magic happens.

You’ll fail. That’s a given. But through failure, you’ll grow. You’ll learn what you’re capable of, what you need to improve, and what really matters.

For me, this isn’t just about losing weight or checking off tasks. It’s about showing up for myself. It’s about proving that I can stick to something hard, not because it’s easy, but because it’s worth doing.

Joy in the Journey

Even as I sit here recovering from the flu, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. I’m grateful for my health, my ability to move, and the opportunity to start again. The fact that I can even attempt Hard 75 is a gift, and I don’t take that lightly.

This journey isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. And progress comes from doing the work, failing, and doing the work again. And I’ve seen some substantial progress – loss of 1% body fat, a 27 minute 5k, a #410 Deadlift PR, a PR in my back squat and other lifts. 

If you’re facing your own setbacks, remember this: failure isn’t the opposite of success. It’s a part of it. Embrace the lessons, and keep moving forward.

Here’s to fresh starts, second chances, and finding joy in the process. Let’s do this!