The Strength Is in the System
People often tell me I’m disciplined. They call me strong, focused, and consistent. But the truth is, I didn’t start out that way. What I did start with was a decision.
At the beginning of my walking journey, I made a verbal and visible commitment: I would walk every single day.....No exceptions.
Then came the test. The tight schedules, unexpected emergencies, body aches, extreme weather, and days when I simply didn’t feel like moving. That’s when I realized something: a decision alone isn’t enough. Discipline isn’t just about willpower. It’s about building a system that takes willpower out of the equation.
My system became simple: walking comes first. Everything else comes second.
That’s not an exaggeration. I prioritized my walks over everything including family commitments. Not because I don’t care about my family, but because I can’t be the man they need me to be if I’m not physically and mentally well. My wellness is built on movement. It’s built on that walk. And that walk is non-negotiable.
So when people say I’m strong, I remind them: my strength is in the system. I’m just a disciple of the rules I've created for myself.
That’s what discipline really is: being extremely clear on who or what you’re following.
Highly religious people often refer to their sacred texts when making decisions. Why? Because the rules are already set. The boundaries are already defined. That structure creates clarity and consistency. It removes guesswork and hesitation. The system answers the hard questions on their behalf.
I’ve tried to create something similar with my physical wellness. The system I follow makes the decisions for me. I don’t debate with myself about walking. I walk. Period.
If you’re struggling with consistency in your fitness or wellness routine, don’t just aim to “be disciplined.” Start by making a bold commitment. Say it out loud. Let others see it. Then build a system that governs your day, that makes space for that commitment no matter what.
Eventually, your system will become stronger than your excuses.
And when that happens, you won’t need more motivation. You’ll just need to keep showing up.
Want to start building your own system? Join us for a walk. If you're in the D.C. area, we meet this Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 6:30 PM on the Metropolitan Branch Trail (8th & Edgewood Sts. NE). Step into a stronger routine—one step at a time.