what kills more dreams than anything else?

When I consult with people about their health and fitness goals, I often get objections. Such as:

• I don't have the time
• I don't have the money

I find that really sad. And it makes me want to ask questions (in a genuine, heartfelt way. Not judgey, because that's not how I roll.)

For one thing - we are all given the same amount of time in a day. Think about it - how much time do you spend asleep? How much time do you spend getting ready for work, and working? What do you do in the evening?

And what about money? I know what it's like to be on a tight budget. For most of my working life I have worked two jobs. I know what it's like to think "Well I'll just have to put money aside for this bill and catch up on that bill next week." Once again, think about it. Do you budget? Do you "wing it" and hope for the best? How much money do you spend on coffee or dinners out each week?

When I get told these two objections, I actually hear something completely different.

"I don't have time" can be translated into:
"I'm not sure how I feel about what you're suggesting. My life is busy and I don't want to get started on something that I know I won't finish. I know I won't finish it because I haven't finished it in the past. I'm scared I will waste my money and be no better off. I'll stick with what I'm doing because it feels safe."

"I don't have the money" can be translated into:
"I don't want to spend money on something when I'm not confident of the outcome. I'm scared I will waste my money and be no better off. I'm scared because I've been burned before and I don't know if I can trust you with my money, my body, and my results. I'll stick with what I'm doing because it feels safe."

Do you know what I hear in those objections? Self doubt. Because of what has happened in the past, you want to protect yourself from having it happen again. You tell me and you tell yourself why it won't work. But doubting yourself will not help you reach your goals. Doubt is a dream killer. Doubt prevents us from living the happiest and healthiest lives possible.

As a Personal Trainer, what I want you to know is this:

• I believe in you, even if you don't.

That's all. All you need to do now is start to believe it too.