On September 24, just five days after returning from a three-week Europe trip, I started the 75 Hard challenge. I first learned about this challenge during my travels, and after indulging in delicious food, alcohol, and treats for three weeks, I felt the need for a lifestyle reset.
The 75 Hard challenge has six strict rules which you follow for 75 consecutive days. Any deviation from these rules means total reset and starting over from day 1:
- Stick to a diet (any diet of your choice).
- Absolutely no alcohol or cheat meals are allowed.
- Complete two 45-minute workouts per day, with one of them taking place outdoors, regardless of the weather.
- Drink 1 gallon of water each day.
- Take a daily progress photo.
- Read 10 pages of inspirational non-fiction each day.
While there is never a “good” time to reset yourself, starting this challenge after a long trip was a true test of resilience. From juggling a very active and jet lagged toddler, recovering from COVID, and maintaining a demanding work schedule, I felt the weight of the world on my shoulders.
The journey wasn’t easy. There were days when motivation waned, nights when reading those 10 pages took nearly an hour due to sheer exhaustion, instances of chugging water before bedtime, leading to late-night trips to the bathroom (reminiscent of my pregnancy days!), and days when my body ached from physical strain. But these challenges have been instrumental in teaching me life-changing lessons, valuable to anyone seeking personal growth.
Now that the challenge is complete, I could sit back and focus on the significant physical transformation, losing seven pounds and unveiling visible abs just 14 months after giving birth, however, the true essence of this 75-day adventure extends far beneath the surface and highlighted some real “ah ha” moments that I want to share.
1) Discipline Shapes Habits, and Habits Shape You
Embracing the 75 Hard challenge reinforced my discipline, turning it into durable habits that have reshaped my identity. This journey has ingrained a routine in my life that now feels indispensable to my mental and physical health.
2) Control What You Can Control
This experience taught me the power of control. The structured regimen of 75 Hard made me realize that achieving small, manageable tasks daily can lead to immense satisfaction and a sense of achievement that positively influences all facets of life.
3) Productivity Trumps More Time
Incorporating additional exercise and reading into my already packed schedule paradoxically enhanced my productivity. It’s a testament to how efficiently we can use our time when we’re focused and disciplined.
4) Every Detail Counts
The daily progress photos, a task I initially underestimated, became a source of motivation and self-appreciation. These photos are not just a record of physical transformation but a narrative of overcoming discomfort and embracing self-confidence.
5) H20 + Exercise = Sharper Mind & Body
The commitment to hydration and regular exercise significantly boosted my mental and physical well-being. It underscored the importance of taking care of our bodies to enhance our overall performance and creativity at work and at play.
While some of these lessons may seem like common sense, the challenge of sticking to them was truly transformative for me. It reshaped my approach to daily routines, pushing me beyond my comfort zones. Every workout, every page read, and every sip of water was a step towards a stronger, more disciplined version of myself personally and professionally.
If you’re even a bit curious about 75 Hard, I strongly recommend giving it a try. If not 75 Hard, consider taking on a challenging journey in 2024 that pushes your boundaries. Whether it’s 75 Hard or any other challenge, remember your innate capabilities and resilience. Embrace challenges that demand unwavering perseverance, as they tend to yield transformative benefits. Ultimately, you’ll emerge stronger, more disciplined, and with a renewed sense of self.
