Overcome: 1. To get the better of in a struggle or conflict; conquer; defeat. 2. To prevail over.
The definition of the word “overcome” evokes thoughts of war—a hard-fought battle, won.
The reality is, for many of us, gaining and maintaining our health is a battle we fight day in and day out. It’s a war against old habits, against cravings, against laziness, and peer pressure. At times, it may feel like a battle we fight against ourselves—and it is.
To fight this battle, to wage the war on obesity and disease, is exhausting. But to overcome means success—not without struggle—but success nonetheless.
To struggle—and to overcome—is what makes us human.
Tom Hooper said: “I think we all have blocks between us and the best version of ourselves, whether it’s shyness, insecurity, anxiety, whether it’s a physical block, and the story of a person overcoming that block to their best self. It’s truly inspiring because I think all of us are engaged in that every day.”
What is the block that is holding you back from being the best version of yourself? Before you can win a war, you must be able to identify the enemy—you must know whom you are fighting.
Is your battle against addiction to food, or lack of desire when it comes to exercising? Is it against the inner voices that have convinced you that you are unworthy? Is your battle against disease that has held you back, or negative people who themselves are a disease on your life?
Identify your opponent, and develop a strategy to overcome.
If you’re reading this, you’ve already made the first step—you are conscious of the need to change. Now, begin crafting your battle plan. Surround yourself with an army of people who will fight with you—through their encouragement, motivation, accountability, and inspiration from their own overcoming.
Most of all, believe you can overcome.
“True success is overcoming the fear of being unsuccessful.” – Paul Sweeney
