75 HARD | How it’s going….

It's truly inspiring to hear about someone tackling the 75 HARD challenge, especially with the added complexity of travel! I've been there, and it's no small feat. That feeling of having your M-F routine down pat, only for weekends or vacations to throw a wrench in everything, is so relatable. But guess what? It is possible to stay on track, even when you're far from home or your usual comfort zone. One of the biggest lessons I learned during my own 75 HARD journey was how to adapt my routine to my environment. When travel is involved, your usual gym might not be an option, and your meal prep routine goes out the window. For workouts, I discovered the beauty of bodyweight exercises. Hotel rooms, parks, or even just a quiet corner can become your gym. If you're in a scenic spot, like the mountains, embrace it! A challenging hike can be an incredible way to get your outdoor workout in, and it doubles as an opportunity to explore. I always pack resistance bands and a jump rope – they're light, portable, and offer a full-body workout. For my second workout, a brisk walk exploring a new city or simply around the hotel grounds was always my go-to. It's about intentional movement, not necessarily breaking records. Sticking to the diet can feel like the toughest part when you're away. My strategy? Research, research, research! Before I travel, I look up restaurants with healthy options or grocery stores nearby. I try to book accommodations with at least a mini-fridge so I can keep some healthy snacks like fruits, veggies, and lean protein on hand. When eating out, I focus on grilled proteins, salads (dressing on the side!), and steamed vegetables, and I'm not afraid to ask for modifications. It's about making the best choices available to you. And water! Oh, the gallon of water can feel like a mission even at home, let alone when you're constantly on the move. My trick is to always carry a large, reusable water bottle and refill it whenever possible – at airports, restaurants, or hotel lobbies. I also set reminders on my phone to sip regularly throughout the day. It's surprising how quickly those ounces add up when you're consistent. The reading component is often easier to manage, as a good book is a great travel companion. I found audiobooks incredibly helpful during long flights or drives. Otherwise, I carve out specific time each day for my 10 pages, perhaps before bed or during a quiet morning coffee. But beyond the practicalities, the mental game of 75 HARD is what truly makes or breaks it. The "one day at a time" mantra isn't just a cliché; it's a lifeline. There will be days when you feel like quitting, especially when plans go awry. Instead of dwelling on a missed meal or a slightly shorter workout, I learned to reset and recommit to the next task. Forgive yourself, learn from it, and move forward. This challenge is truly a marathon, demanding consistent effort and resilience over perfection. Finally, never underestimate the power of your "tribe." Having friends or family who understand what you're doing and support your journey makes a world of difference. Whether it's a quick encouraging text, a workout buddy, or someone who simply doesn't tempt you with off-plan treats, that support system is invaluable. Sharing your progress, even the struggles, helps keep you accountable and reminds you why you started. It's a journey that pushes you to grow in every aspect, and every day you show up is a win. Keep pushing, you've got this!