The #1 Reason That Separates Fit Guys From Everyone Else
Action Over Motivation: The Secret to Long-Term Fitness Success
The Motivation Myth
Most guys I talk to think that motivation is the key to getting in shape. They're just waiting for that spark of energy, that perfect moment when they "feel ready" to hit the gym, clean up their diet, and commit to the process.
But here’s the hard truth: Motivation is bullsh*t and you should not rely on it. It comes and goes, and if you wait for it, you could be waiting forever. If it does come, great, but what happens when it goes away?
The guys who are in great shape? They don’t rely on motivation. They have flipped the switch in their minds and adopted the simple principle of action over motivation and started focusing on making progress, not being perfect.
This is the single biggest reason that separates fit guys from everyone else.
In this guide, we’ll break down why action always beats motivation, the science behind it, and how you can implement this shift today to get in the best shape of your life.
Why Motivation is a Lie (And How It’s Holding You Back)
Motivation is an emotion. And like any emotion, it’s unpredictable and fleeting. Some days you’ll feel fired up, and other days you’ll feel like doing absolutely nothing and that's a part of life.
What Happens When You Rely on Motivation:
You skip workouts when you’re tired, busy, or unmotivated.
You fall off your diet because you "just don’t feel like meal prepping."
You never build real consistency because your decisions are based on your feelings instead of habits.
This is why so many guys start strong but fall off after a few weeks. They were motivated at first, but when motivation faded (which it always does), they quit. Research shows that it takes roughly 66 days to form a new habit. So, just because you did it for a few days or even a couple weeks, does not mean that it has become a part of your routine yet.
The Science: Action Creates Motivation (Not the Other Way Around)
The biggest mistake people make is waiting until they feel motivated to take action. It doesn't matter what this is for in life, the principle remains the same.
But research shows that motivation actually follows action, not the other way around.
The Psychology Behind It:
Newton’s First Law: An object in motion stays in motion. Once you start moving, it’s easier to keep going.
Behavioral Activation: Studies show that when you take action first (even small steps), your brain releases dopamine, increasing motivation to continue.
Momentum Effect: When you see even small progress, it creates a feedback loop that makes you want to keep going. This can be measured in many different ways other than the scale.
Example: Ever notice how you don’t always want to work out, but once you start warming up, you suddenly feel more energized? That’s because action triggers motivation—not the other way around. Just the simple action of even walking into the gym typically produces a workout of some sort. Most of us wouldn't just go there to walk around and leave.
How to Apply the “Action Over Motivation” Principle to Your Fitness
Set Non-Negotiable Actions (Not Feelings)
Wrong approach: "I’ll work out if I feel like it."
Right approach: "I will train on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday—no excuses."
How to implement:
Pick 3-5 non-negotiable fitness habits (workouts, protein intake, water, walks, etc.)
Stick to them regardless of motivation
Set reminders or stack them into your daily routine
Lower the Activation Barrier
One reason guys skip workouts is because they make it too complicated to start. Anything is better than nothing but, having a plan typically makes the process easier to adhere to and much more effective for your results, and the time you put in.
How to fix it:
Lay out your gym clothes the night before
Get a pre-workout to increase your "motivation" [This is my go to]
Have a set training plan (no thinking, just execute)
Make your meals in advance so you don’t have to "figure it out"
Take the First Step—No Matter How Small
The hardest part is just getting started. If you commit to just 5 minutes, you’ll almost always end up doing the full workout.
Example:
"I’ll just do the warm-up, then decide if I want to keep going."
"I’ll prep one meal instead of trying to do a full week at once."
Once you start, momentum will carry you forward.
Real-Life Example: The Difference Between Action and Waiting for Motivation
The Average Guy: Wants to get in shape, but only works out when he feels like it. He trains inconsistently, eats well for a week, then falls off because he lost motivation. Months go by, and he’s in the same spot—frustrated, out of shape, and looking for another "fresh start."
The Fit Guy: Doesn’t rely on motivation. He sets a training schedule and sticks to it, even on days he doesn’t feel like it. He knows discipline beats motivation every time. As a result, he stays consistent, makes progress, and builds a body he’s proud of.
The difference? One guy lets emotions dictate his actions. The other commits to action first and lets motivation catch up.
Final Thoughts: Shift to an Action-First Mentality
The “Action Over Motivation” principle is what separates those who succeed from those who keep starting over. If you take action before you feel ready, you’ll build the discipline and momentum needed for long-term success.
Takeaways:
Stop waiting to feel motivated—take action first.
Set non-negotiable habits and stick to them.
Lower the activation barrier to make starting easier.
Trust that motivation follows action—not the other way around.
If you can lock in this principle, everything else will fall into place. Trust the process, reap the benefits.
Take the Next Step
If you’re ready to stop waiting and start executing, join the 90-Day Right-of-Way Program. Get the structure, coaching, and accountability to build the discipline needed to transform your body and mind.
