It’s January 2025, and as I reflect on the journey I’ve been on – 30 years since high school, 20 years out of undergrad, and heading into my third quarter of a doctoral program – discipline has been ringing in my ears louder than ever.
My husband has brought it up over the years (probably more times than I’d like to admit), and if I’m being honest, I know he’s right. There are areas where I do have discipline—in my studies, in my role as a mother to a seven-year-old and almost 12-year-old, and in sticking to certain goals. But when it comes to things like working out consistently? Yeah… not so much.
I start strong – hitting the gym, walking, or doing yoga for a few months – but then life happens. The weather gets bad, I get sick, or something else knocks me off track. Before I know it, I’m back to square one. I’ve realized that to stick with something, I have to like it. That’s not laziness – it’s self-awareness.
Rediscovering the Water
I went to my doctor today because my back has been giving me trouble. The first thing he asked was, “Do you swim?” I told him I love swimming – I’ve taken water aerobics classes throughout the years, and I genuinely enjoy being in the water. His response? “Do that. At this point in your life, that will sustain you and keep your back healthy.”*
So, today, I took my daughter to the YMCA and worked out for about 45 minutes. Let me tell you—I am sore as hell. My leg cramped in the pool, and I could feel the burn in my upper back and shoulders. But you know what? My back already feels better. I could stretch, move, and feel the muscles working in ways I haven’t felt in a long time.
I needed that burn.
Leaning Into What Works
I’ve decided that the pool will be my main form of exercise from now on. I already have this cute scuba suit I bought a couple of years ago—complete with matching water shoes—and yes, I even have a swim cap (which I totally forgot today).
Now, I’m researching the best water exercises and stretches, trying to bring back some of the workouts I did in college. We did a lot in the deep end back then, but I know I can make it work in four feet of water.
The Plan: Discipline in Motion
I’m committing to being in the pool three times a week with no excuses.
Listening to my body – I’ll push myself, but I’ll also give grace when needed.
Staying accountable. I’ll be checking in here and on social media to share how it’s going (even if it’s just a post about how sore I am or how my daughter out-swam me).
This isn’t just about getting fit. It’s about proving to myself that I can stay consistent – in the water, my health, and life.
Why This Matters
At 48, I realize that discipline isn’t just about pushing through – it’s about finding what works for you and sticking to it. For me, that’s the pool. For you, it might be something different – and that’s okay. The goal is to show up, even when you don’t feel like it.
👉 Follow along on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook for updates, pool selfies, and real-life mom moments (because, let’s be honest – sometimes parenting is the workout). I’ll be sharing tips, funny fails, and, hopefully, some victories along the way.
I’m excited to see where this journey takes me – and my prayer is that I stay consistent, pushing myself to show up in that water at least three times a week.
Your turn: What’s one thing you want to commit to this year? Please drop a comment, and let’s keep each other accountable!
Here’s to a year of discipline, growth, and maybe a little less back pain.
With gratitude and a dash of courage,
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