Hello, Reader, it’s been a long time!
A whole year, in fact, since I wrote my last post for the Daily Self Newsletter. It’s been so long that you might not even remember signing up via Substack, Rawlogy, The Kula Diaries, or another referral source. If you want to unsubscribe, feel free; BUT I hope you'll stay for what's coming next.
When I started the Daily Self Newsletter in 2023, I cast a wide net around self-care. But I took a year off to really dig deep into my passions and dreams. During my time away, I've discovered that my true calling lies in a more focused direction: the transformative power of fitness—and not just the physical side, but the psychology and neuroscience behind it too.
Why the change?
True strength isn't just physical—it's about showing up for yourself every day, especially on the hard days.
This past year has been a journey of rediscovery. Embracing 43 wasn't just about accepting a number; it was about acknowledging that my relationship with fitness and well-being had evolved.
In my 20s and 30s, it was all about aesthetics and performance—chasing numbers on a scale, hitting PRs, and pushing limits. Now? It's about something deeper. And, my recommitment to sobriety taught me that true strength isn't just physical—it's about showing up for yourself every day, especially on the hard days.
When I returned to focusing on my health and well-being, it wasn’t with the same old mindset of “no pain, no gain.” Instead, I found myself rediscovering my dreams of owning a gym and training others to find their strength, including my 12-year-old son, Jack. I was also fascinated by the internal stories we carry as we approach our workouts, whether that’s in the gym, during a morning run, while practicing dance or yoga, etc. Some people light up with excitement, while others carry invisible burdens from past experiences or unmet goals. That’s when it hit me—fitness isn’t just about the body; it’s a laboratory for understanding human psychology and potential.
What's next for the Daily Self Newsletter
Starting today, the Daily Self Newsletter will focus exclusively on fitness—but not in the way you might expect. I’ll cover training techniques, proper form, and effective routines, but more importantly, we’ll dig into:
The psychology behind motivation and how to build habits that actually stick
How your emotional relationship with fitness shapes the results you get
Ways to create a sustainable and enjoyable fitness practice that evolves with you over time
The intersection of mental and physical strength—because building the strongest version of yourself happens in every aspect of life, not just through workouts
What's in it for you
As a subscriber, you’ll receive a weekly newsletter every Monday that goes beyond the usual fitness advice. Expect:
Deep dives into both the "how" and "why" of training that’s not only effective, but also enjoyable
Practical guidance on developing a healthy, balanced relationship with fitness—one that fits your life
Insights into the psychology of motivation and the habits that lead to real, lasting change
Free 1:1 Q&A support via the Substack Notes app, so you can ask me questions and get tailored advice
Now, you may be wondering where the “Daily” in “Daily Self Newsletter” comes in if I’m sending this weekly. Each newsletter will provide a daily framework of small, actionable goals that you can follow for the rest of the week. Whether it's a mindset shift, a new exercise technique, or a mental challenge, these daily goals will help you stay on track and build lasting habits—without feeling overwhelmed.
Let's get started
Next Monday’s post will explore “What is Your Why?” which will guide you through the process of identifying your core motivations for pursuing fitness, often referred to as your "why."
Reply to this email and share your biggest challenge when it comes to staying consistent with fitness. Whether it's motivation, time, or something else entirely, I’d love to hear your story. Your response could inspire future newsletters and help shape the topics we explore together.
Thank you for being part of this evolution. Here's to building not just stronger bodies, but stronger selves.
P.S.
Thank you to Amy and Mandy for listening and giving feedback during our wild adventures. And to Shawnté for asking the questions that poked my brain in the first place.