This past week has been a tough one. Something is wrong with my right heel—maybe a stress fracture, as my chiropractor suggested, but unconfirmed. Whatever it is, it’s been enough to cause a limp, which led to a misalignment in my back. That misalignment turned into days of relentless pain, making even the basics of daily life difficult. Thankfully, the adjustment I got this evening seems to have calmed it all down.

But here’s the thing: discomfort, while unwelcome, can reveal deeper lessons. Pain has a way of sharpening focus and reminding us of what really matters. This past week, I’ve leaned into that lesson and found strength in unexpected places.

Finding Purpose in Pain

Pain forces you to adapt. My back pain, paired with whatever is going on with my heel, meant reevaluating how I moved, rested, and approached fitness. I’ve been sticking to easier workouts this week, allowing my back to stabilize and heal. One day, I strapped on a 40-pound weight vest for my walk, testing what I could handle while still respecting my limits. And then I spent 45 minutes bro-lifting, building my arms and avoiding use of my back.

Even that single walk was a reminder that progress doesn’t require perfection. Pain slows you down, but it doesn’t stop you unless you let it.

There were moments this week when the nerve pain became unbearable. I’ll admit, I wanted to drink to numb it—just like I did back in 2021 when I first messed up my back. But I didn’t. This time, I endured. I reminded myself that the progress I’ve made isn’t something I’m willing to lose. Choosing not to drink was a decision to protect that progress and move forward, even when it felt impossible. 

Progress is Real

For the first time in years, I’m seeing real progress in my weight thanks to intermittent fasting (IF). It’s a simple concept: stick to the basics, stay consistent, and the results will come. IF has helped me regain control over my eating habits, giving me structure without feeling restrictive. Pairing this with the discipline of Hard 75, I’ve finally started to feel momentum building.

This isn’t about overnight success or dramatic transformations. It’s about showing up consistently, even when circumstances aren’t ideal. Whether it’s modifying workouts to prevent further injury, sticking to a diet, or committing to rest and recovery, progress comes from respecting the process.

Strength Through Adaptation

What this week taught me is simple: strength isn’t about pushing through recklessly—it’s about knowing when to adapt and stay steady. Walk when you can. Rest when you need to. Adjust when something feels off. It’s not about how much you can endure but how smartly you can navigate the challenges.

This weekend, despite my back pain and uncertainty about my heel, I graded the ACFT and reflected on the progress both fitness standards and my own discipline have made. The ACFT mirrors what I’ve been learning: functional readiness and smart, consistent effort win over raw determination every time.

The Journey Forward

I’m still figuring out what’s wrong with my heel, but I’ll keep moving forward. Pain may slow me down, but it won’t stop me. Progress is real, even when it’s slow. The lessons I’ve learned this week—to adapt, endure, and stay consistent—will carry me forward. Each small victory is proof that purpose and progress can emerge from the toughest of weeks.

Merry Liftmas is Around the Corner

As this week winds down, I’m looking ahead to our annual Merry Liftmas holiday party at BattleGrounds Fitness. Unfortunately, I won’t be able to make it this year due to a prior commitment, but I know the celebration is in great hands. Rocky, along with Bobby, Crystal, and Kristen, will be taking the reins to make sure it’s a fun and festive event for everyone.

Our Christmas party is always a great timer, and while I’m sad to miss it, I’m looking forward to hearing all about the laughs, the community spirit, and, of course, seeing pictures from the White Elephant gift exchange. It’s events like these that remind me how strong and supportive our BattleGrounds family truly is. I hope many of you are able to make it to the event. 

Enjoy the party, everyone, and make some great memories—I’ll be there in spirit!