How often would you like to exercise?
A. Twice daily
B. Daily
C. Four times a week
D. Never

I’m the last guy to come to for advice on exercise.

I’m a solid “D” on this quiz.

Never sounds just fine. I could watch TV and eat with the time I free up by skipping exercise. I like the way “D” sounds. It rolls off my tongue.

And “D” is what many of us do. We sit, rocking gently back and forth, in our chairs. Life is good.

But we’re not getting better. Rocking back and forth takes us nowhere. Rocking doesn’t make us stronger or healthier. We can’t grow if we sit still and stay where we’re sitting.

How to Make Progress

Growth only happens if we stand up and step forward.

Growth comes from stepping into a new, uncomfortable space. We’ve got to step outside of our comfort zone to make progress.

Growth happens when we take on a challenging case or client. Growth happens when we launch a new marketing project. Growth happens when we call a new contact about lunch. Growth happens when we read a book, take a course, or call someone with questions. Growth happens when we join a new group, make a new friend, or walk up front and introduce ourselves.

It’s easier to sit and rock. It’s easier to pick “D.” Growth only happens when we get up out of the chair, move forward, and step out of our comfort zone.