Why “All or Nothing” Doesn’t Work

Let’s face it—life’s busy, unpredictable, and often downright messy. So why do we hold ourselves to an impossible standard when it comes to fitness and nutrition? The “all or nothing” mindset—the idea that you have to work out every single day or swear off carbs forever to see results—is a fast track to burnout, frustration, and giving up altogether.

But what if I told you that you don’t have to go all-in to see progress? Let’s break down the myths and replace them with simple, sustainable strategies that actually work.

Myth 1: You Need to Work Out 7 Days a Week to See Results

Truth: You don’t.

Consistency beats perfection every single time. If you’re just starting out—or starting again—aiming for seven workouts a week is like trying to sprint before you can jog. Instead, start small. Commit to 1 or 2 days a week. Show up, give it your best, and build from there.

Even one workout a week is a win. It’s not about doing everything; it’s about doing something. Each session you show up for adds to the momentum. Progress is a snowball effect, not a one-time push.

Myth 2: Carbs Are the Enemy

Truth: They’re not.

Cutting out carbs completely might sound like the golden ticket to quick results, but it’s not sustainable (or enjoyable). Carbs fuel your body and your workouts, and yes, you can still enjoy your favourite foods while making progress.

The key is balance. Think of it like budgeting—you wouldn’t spend all your money on one thing, but you also wouldn’t cut out spending entirely. Enjoy that pizza, pasta, or bread, and pair it with nutrient-dense foods like veggies and protein. Moderation over elimination is the game-changer.

Myth 3: Missing a Workout Means You’ve Failed

Truth: It doesn’t.

Life happens. Work deadlines, sick kids, surprise meetings—they all throw us off track sometimes. But missing a workout isn’t the end of the road; it’s just a detour.

The trick is to focus on your next opportunity to move, whether that’s tomorrow, next week, or even a few minutes of stretching between commitments. Fitness isn’t about doing everything right—it’s about showing up when you can. Progress isn’t a straight line, and that’s okay.

The Big Picture: Fitness Is About What You Can Do

There’s freedom in knowing that you don’t have to be perfect to make progress. Every small step—whether it’s walking the dog, cooking a balanced dinner, or hitting one workout this week—adds up over time.

Remember, consistency will always beat perfection. The “all or nothing” trap only holds you back. Start where you are, use what you have, and do what you can. Small, steady actions lead to big changes over time.