Just Show Up: The Power of Pushing Through on Hard Days

Sunday morning. 7 AM. Rain tapping against the gym windows. The kind of weather that makes staying under the covers seem like the best idea. But I showed up. Not because I felt amazing. Not because I was bursting with energy. But because I knew I’d feel better after.

Rainy days do something to my body. It’s like my system is moving through molasses—slower, heavier, requiring more effort. This morning, it was obvious. Two people asked if I needed help, just watching me steady myself before getting onto the leg curl and back extension machines. I wasn’t in distress—I was just taking my time, making sure I didn’t fall. But I get it. MS makes my movements different, and sometimes people worry.

And honestly? I appreciate that kindness.

But the thing is, I showed up anyway. I wasn’t fast, I wasn’t feeling supercharged, but I did what I came to do. And by the time I was done, I felt amazing. Not because I broke any records, but because I did what I promised myself I’d do.

The Power of Being Seen

As I was making my way through my workout, someone at the gym stopped me and said, “I haven’t seen you in a while, but I thought of you, and I knew I had to be here.”

That hit me.

We never really know who we’re inspiring just by showing up. This person wasn’t saying they needed to work out for the same reasons I do. But they saw me, they remembered me, and they knew that if I could push through my own challenges, they could push through theirs.

I smiled and said, “Everybody has something. Mine just happens to be visible. But if you really want to do something, you can. And you absolutely should.”

Why Showing Up Matters

Motivation is unreliable. Some days, it’s easy to get out of bed, lace up my sneakers, and feel strong. Other days—especially when my body feels like it’s fighting against me—it’s all about discipline. The simple choice to show up, no matter how I feel.

Here’s the truth:

• You don’t have to feel great to start.

• You don’t have to move fast.

• You just have to show up.

And when you do, you’ll always leave feeling better than if you hadn’t.

That’s why I love getting my workout done in the morning. No matter what the rest of the day throws at me, I know I’ve already accomplished something powerful.

So if you’re debating whether to start, whether to push through, whether it’s worth it—just show up. Even if you’re slow. Even if you don’t feel like it. Even if it’s raining.

Because when you’re done, you’ll be glad you did.