Omayra Acevedo, Peak to Peak. To fully explain the process of change would be like asking an artist where they find they’re inspiration. The response is always endless. It can come from anywhere and happen at any given moment. It can’t be forced or planned. You can, however, tailor it to your goals. And if you want to get better at art or stronger with change, one must keep practicing and embracing the lessons we learn through it all.

If you’ve been keeping up with my monthly fitness columns, you might recall that in my younger years, I was overweight and miserable. But one day the longing for change kicked in and inspiration took over. I am no longer overweight, but I still have my issues. Physically, I know that I have changed for the better. However, mentally, I still find frustration when looking in a mirror. I can’t help but tell myself that I can always do more and be better. So, I put on my Nike’s and head out the front door for a run. Some days I can go ten miles, other days two miles is more than enough. I have to be okay with either, because any run is better than none. 

As I was incorporating shoulders into my exercise routine, I decided to try a few military presses. In case you’re not certain, a military press is when you hold a weighted barbell close to your chest and with your core engaged, proceed to lift it over your head. I was able to press 50 pounds over my head eight times for three sets. For someone with back, neck and shoulder injuries, I would say that it was a great accomplishment. This was also after already having done several sets of upright rows and lateral raises at my max.

I won’t lie. I almost gave up twice, but I didn’t allow myself to do so. The power of remaining focused, determined and inspired can do wonders for each of us. Just remember to work at your own pace. I don’t live my life comparing my strength, experiences and knowledge to other people’s. I see no point in it. Their life is theirs and I am living my own to the best of my ability. You see, it’s not a matter of being the best or being perfect. It’s a matter of simply being better than you were yesterday. 

(Originally published in the August 27, 2020, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)