Hey there, dream-chaser! Welcome to Day 16 of my 7-40 Challenge—a 40-day journey where I’m committing to seven daily habits to bring my goals to life. Today, I’ve got a confession: I’m exhausted. Bone-tired, ready-to-crawl-back-to-bed kind of tired. But here’s the thing—I’m not giving up. And neither should you. Let’s talk about pushing through, staying focused, and chasing our dreams, even when the going gets tough.
The Comfort Trap: A Familiar Foe
We’ve all been there. When life gets hard, when fatigue sets in, it’s so tempting to slip back into our comfort zones. For me, that used to mean diving under the covers, scrolling endlessly through social media, or reaching for a snack to numb the discomfort. I’ve spent parts of my life as a comfort seeker, dodging the hard stuff in favor of what feels easy. But here’s what I’ve learned: comfort is the enemy of progress. I want progress.
As the great philosopher Plato once said, “We are twice armed if we fight with faith.” Faith in ourselves, in our goals, and in the process—it’s what keeps us moving forward when every fiber of our being screams for rest. The old me would’ve given in to that scream. The new me? I’m choosing to show up, tired or not.
Doing It Tired, Doing It Hurting, Doing It Anyway
Part of building a daily habit set—like my 7-40 Challenge—is being unwavering. It’s about showing up for yourself, even when you’re not at your best. Today, I’m tired. My body’s aching, and my bed is calling my name. But I’m not listening. Why? Because I know that the tiredness will pass, but the regret of giving up won’t.
I’m committing to finishing my seven habits today—my workout, my water intake, my goals—before I let myself rest. And here’s the good news: I will get to rest. I’ll sleep soundly tonight, wake up tomorrow, and go after it again. The fatigue is temporary, but the progress? That’s is non negotiable.
A Lesson from the Past: The Power of Relentless Pursuit
Let me take you back to a moment that still inspires me. Thirty years ago, I was a high school junior with a dream: to make the All-State Choir. I’d tasted defeat the year before as a sophomore, and it stung. But that summer, I decided failure wasn’t an option. The choir clinic I needed to attend cost money—money I didn’t have. So, I got to work. I mowed lawns, hustled, and saved every penny until I could afford it. I practiced relentlessly, poured my heart into every note, and when tryouts came, I made it. I stood on that stage, a member of the All-State Choir, because I refused to let anything stand in my way. I have applied that o other pursuits over the years with similar outcome, but there have been times of the opposite. I have to focus on the good days and let them be my choice.
As Nelson Mandela once said, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” That’s the mindset I’m bringing to my 7-40 Challenge. In just 16 days, I’ve lost over 10 pounds by staying consistent—drinking my water, hitting my hour-long workouts, and keeping my eyes on the prize. I’m tired, sure, but I’m also stronger, healthier, and closer to my goals. The principle is the same now as it was back then: when you know what you want, you don’t let obstacles—whether it’s fatigue, doubt, or setbacks—stop you.
Your Turn: What’s Your Goal?
So, let me ask you: What’s your goal? What dream are you chasing? Are you showing up for it every day, even when it’s hard? Are you holding yourself accountable, or are you letting excuses creep in? I want to hear from you. If you’re crushing it, share your story—I could use the inspiration! If you’re struggling, let’s talk about it. Frustrations are part of the journey, but they don’t have to define it.
You, reading this right now, are part of my accountability. Knowing you’re out there, cheering me on, holds me accountable. I’m grateful for you—more than you know.
Keep Going, Keep Growing
Day 16 of the 7/40 Challenge is almost in the books, and I’m not done yet. I’ll finish my habits, push through the tiredness, and wake up tomorrow ready to tackle Day 17. The road to our dreams isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it. As Winston Churchill once said, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”
So, let’s keep going—tired, hurting, or otherwise. Let’s chase our goals with everything we’ve got. Here’s to Day 16, to progress, and to the unstoppable spirit inside us all. I’ll see you tomorrow for Day 17. Keep shining!
What’s your goal? Drop it in the comments, share your wins, or let me know what’s holding you back. Let’s inspire each other!
David Willis 