The Deep Middle

[Prelude and Context: I wrote this for a Walking With Gratitude Challenge group I lead. We have just passsed the midway point in the boring, ugly, unglamorous part of this journey. As I sent it out, it occured to me others might benefit from it as well. I hope you do.]

Right now is the part of the journey where it’s easy to take your foot off the pedal. The first few days of a new habit feel exciting. You have fresh goals, new energy, big motivation. But somewhere in the deep middle of habit formation the rhythm changes. The new energy wains, motivation has headed to Florida for the winter, and the inspiration for walking gets quieter. The steps start to blend. Your “WHY…” the reason you started, the purpose for signing up, the benefits you are wanting to see… begin to be a faint sound in the distant wind rather than a shout in your ear. 

Good News! That’s normal.

That’s where habits are actually built. [Read this again]

The lull isn’t a sign to stop. The lull is an invitation to stay steady. Keep walking when it’s ordinary, boring, uninspired. Keep going when it’s not glamorous. Keep showing up for yourself when no one cares… when no one is watching… when it is just you and God and the path. These quiet, consistent steps are where confidence takes root and real change begins to grow.

Remember: 

👟The goal isn’t perfection—it’s persistence.

👟Success comes to those who keep walking with gratitude. One step. One day. One choice at a time.

👟Building new habits is the sound of each step playing the same note over and over and over… until consistency and benefits start to sing.

For Best Things…

Craig