Looking Back to Push Forward

September 20, 2024

We often reflect on our past selves to acknowledge how far we’ve come, noting the ways we’ve grown and improved. Usually, this reflection serves to inspire us, as we aspire to make our future self our present reality. As a weightlifting athlete, I recently found myself doing just that—watching videos of my lifts from over a year ago, back when I hit the weights that are now my goals once again.

Over the past year, life threw some significant curveballs. I had to take time off from training due to personal circumstances, and for the last six weeks, I’ve been working diligently to get back into competitive shape. It hasn’t been easy—there have been many changes, both external and internal. I’ve moved to a new state, far from my previous team and coaches. My body has changed, and it doesn’t recover quite like it used to. The landscape is different now, but one thing remains constant: the desire to lift.

This week, I did something unusual for me. I looked at videos of my past self not for the usual reasons of measuring progress or growth, but as a source of motivation. I told myself, “You did it before, and you can do it again. You just have to put in the work.” The key takeaway wasn’t some magical talent that allowed me to lift heavy back then—it was the result of hard work. Sure, my circumstances have shifted, but I accept that. I know the outcome will be different this time around. Maybe it won’t come as easily, but it will come.

Armed with this mindset, I went to the gym. Watching my old videos reminded me that I am capable. I’ve already lifted those weights, so I can do it again—and maybe even surpass my previous bests. This shift in thinking has been empowering. I’ve never been one to rely on gym videos of myself, but I’ve come to appreciate their value. In the past, I would watch others to learn techniques and then rely on how my body felt while lifting. Now, I see the importance of visually committing my own movements to memory. Not only does this build muscle memory, but it also reinforces my ability to visualize myself executing lifts in competition—when it matters most.

The biggest lesson I learned this week wasn’t just about reviewing technique. It was about using my past self not as a measure of progress, but as motivation to keep grinding. I’m committing to the journey it takes to compete at that level again. The weight may feel heavier now, but I know that with dedication, I can reach and exceed my old records.

When was the last time you looked to your past self as a motivator for your present self, knowing that your future self will be even better? Embrace the grind—the journey is worth it, and so are the results.