Routine & Structure = Bliss
One thing about me is that I tend to be an all-or-nothing person. Unfortunately, when I hit a small hiccup, I sometimes let it spiral into a massive roadblock instead of simply adjusting and moving forward.
I started taking Pure Barre classes in August 2024, even though I had been wanting to join since I first moved to Ann Arbor in the fall of 2020, when I started at the University of Michigan. For years, I kept telling myself I didn’t have enough time—or I’d come up with an excuse when I actually did.
When I finally scheduled my intro class, I almost talked myself out of it again. Work with the attorney ran longer than expected, so I called to reschedule. But instead of canceling, the owner, Mary-Liz, offered to fit me into a later class that same day. I decided to just go for it. I hadn’t done an organized fitness class—or honestly worked out—in longer than I care to admit.
After that first class and a great conversation with Mary-Liz, I decided to purchase an unlimited package (because if I’m going to do something, I want the best value). Since then, I’ve made it a priority to show up and get the most out of it—not just because I’m paying for it, but because it’s become part of how I show up for myself.
One of my favorite things—aside from the incredible community that Mary-Liz and all the instructors have built—are the challenges. I’m beyond competitive and love the satisfaction of completing a goal.
That’s why it really bothers me that I won’t be finishing the March challenge. I’ve missed too many classes this month—mainly from oversleeping and adjusting to an increased workload after a slow January and February—which has left me just short of the required number.
It might seem like a small thing, but signing up for something and not following through isn’t like me, and it’s frustrating. If I can get into the waitlisted classes over the weekend, I might just squeeze in enough to finish by the 31st. Here’s hoping!
But if I don’t finish, I need to remind myself that it’s okay. It’s not the end of the world, and I know what I need to do to improve next time.
People say you’re your own worst critic, and I swear that phrase was coined specifically for me. If I don’t complete this challenge, I need to accept it—not as a failure, but as a lesson. Instead of being disappointed in myself, I should reflect on what I can change. Dwelling on disappointment will only lead to inaction, which will only fuel more frustration and self-doubt.
Structure and routine are my biggest tools for success, and this is just another reminder of how important they are for me.
