Placidity: A Lesson from My First Day at the Gym

Dear friends, today I want to share a story from my past that taught me a valuable lesson about placidity. It was my first day at the gym, a memory that still shines brightly in my mind.

The First Day at the Gym

As a young man, I was eager to prove myself. I wanted to lift the heaviest weights, run the fastest mile, and outperform everyone else. On my first day at the gym, I was brimming with energy and ambition. But, as I soon learned, ambition without placidity can lead to unnecessary struggles.

The Lesson of Placidity

There I was, surrounded by seasoned gym-goers, their muscles rippling, their faces focused. I felt out of place, a small fish in a big pond. I was eager to fit in, to prove that I belonged. So, I loaded up the barbell with more weight than I could handle, and I tried to lift it.

My arms shook, my face turned red, and I could barely keep my balance. I was pushing myself too hard, too fast. I was about to give up when an older gentleman approached me. He was one of the regulars, a man whose strength and composure I admired.

“Son,” he said, “you’re trying too hard. You’re not here to impress anyone. You’re here to improve yourself. Take it slow, be patient, and the strength will come.”

Embracing Placidity

His words struck a chord in me. I realized that I was letting my ambition cloud my judgment. I was so focused on proving myself that I was risking injury and discouraging myself. I needed to embrace placidity, to be calm and patient with myself.

From that day forward, I approached my workouts with a new mindset. I focused on my own progress, not on comparing myself to others. I learned to be patient with myself, to celebrate my small victories, and to understand that progress takes time.

Applying Placidity to Life

My friends, the lesson of placidity is not just for the gym. It’s a lesson for life. Whether you’re starting a new job, learning a new skill, or facing a challenging situation, remember to be patient with yourself. Don’t rush. Don’t compare yourself to others. Embrace placidity, and you’ll find that you’re capable of more than you ever imagined.

Remember, my friends, life is not a race. It’s a journey. And on this journey, placidity is your friend. It will keep you grounded, focused, and ready to face whatever comes your way.

Until next time, stay calm, stay patient, and embrace the journey.

Kev