The Power of Consistency: My 100-Day Walking Journey

On April 12th, I made a simple yet transformative decision: to go for a long walk at lunch. That single step marked the beginning of a journey that would profoundly change my life over the next 100 days. Today, I want to share my story, not only to celebrate my achievements but also to inspire others to embrace consistency, even when faced with daily challenges.

Starting Small

Initially, I started walking just a couple of miles each day. My pace was slow—27 minutes per mile—but I kept at it. The key was to stay consistent, no matter what obstacles I encountered. Each day, I would lace up my shoes and hit the pavement, pushing myself a little further than the day before.

Setting Goals and Overcoming Hurdles

Consistency isn't about perfection; it's about persistence. There were days when I didn't feel like walking, days when the weather was bad, and days when my schedule was packed. Yet, I remained committed. I set daily goals and challenges for myself, slowly increasing my speed and distance.

From those initial 2 miles, I gradually worked my way up to 8 miles a day. My pace improved too—from 27-minute miles to 17-minute miles. Every day presented new hurdles, but overcoming them became part of the journey.

The Results

The physical and mental benefits of this daily routine have been incredible. I've lost 45 pounds, and my cardio health has improved from "low" to "average." But perhaps the most significant change has been in my mental health. The daily walks have given me time to clear my mind, reflect, and feel more centered.

Consistency in a Changing World

This journey taught me an important lesson that extends beyond personal health: consistency in the face of change. Organizations are constantly evolving. Teams shift, priorities change, and new challenges arise. However, if you remain consistent with your actions, questions, and delivery, you can make a significant difference. Consistency allows you to focus on delivering results rather than constantly putting out fires.

In a professional setting, maintaining consistent actions and standards helps build trust and reliability. It creates a stable foundation that others can depend on, even when everything around you is in flux.

Questions for Reflection

As you read my story, I encourage you to reflect on your own journey. Here are some questions to consider:

1. What small changes can you make today that could lead to significant improvements over time?
2. How can you incorporate daily physical activity into your routine, despite a busy schedule?
3. What are some obstacles you face in your journey, and how can you overcome them with consistency?
4. How do you set and track your personal goals, and what motivates you to stay committed?
5. In what ways have physical activities impacted your mental health and overall well-being?
6. How can you apply the principles of consistency in your professional life to navigate and thrive through organizational changes?

Consistency, in the face of daily challenges and organizational changes, is what gets you the results. My journey is proof that with dedication and persistence, you can achieve remarkable changes. Whether it's walking, running, or any other form of exercise, the key is to start and to keep going, no matter what. Your future self will thank you.