When You Think About Quitting, Think About Why You Started

We've all been there—feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or frustrated, staring at the metaphorical mountain in front of us and wondering, "Why am I doing this?" In those moments, it's easy to think about giving up. But before you do, take a deep breath and ask yourself one simple question: Why did I start?

The answer to that question holds incredible power. Often, when we begin a journey—whether it's a new project, a fitness goal, or a career change—we’re driven by something meaningful. It might be the desire for personal growth, the excitement of a challenge, or the hope of making a difference in the world. But along the way, obstacles arise, and it’s easy to lose sight of that original spark.

Yet, when we pause and reflect on our why, we reconnect with our purpose. It shifts our focus from the frustration of the moment to the bigger picture. Maybe you started a new business because you wanted more freedom, or you committed to a fitness goal to feel stronger and healthier. Whatever your reason, it's a reminder that quitting won’t bring you closer to that vision—it’ll only delay it.

Think about the small victories you've already achieved. Every step forward, no matter how small, is progress. The late-night study sessions, early morning workouts, or the countless hours you’ve invested in honing your craft—they’re all part of the journey.

Each challenge you’ve faced is a building block, making you stronger and more resilient.

Of course, the path isn't always smooth. In fact, it’s rarely a straight line. There will be setbacks, failures, and moments of self-doubt. But these moments don’t define you. What defines you is how you rise after each setback. Perseverance is what turns dreams into reality. Remember, success isn’t always about the final destination—it’s about the person you become in the process.

So, when you're on the brink of giving up, take a moment to remember why you started in the first place. Reflect on the passion, the goals, and the dreams that ignited this journey. Let that be your fuel. Reconnect with your why and let it push you forward when the road gets tough.

Success takes time, effort, and patience. But if you keep going, keep believing in yourself, and keep your eyes on that initial reason for starting, you’ll find that the journey is worth every challenge. It’s not about how fast you get there; it’s about not giving up when it gets hard.

Next time you feel like quitting, think back to that moment when you first started—and let that memory reignite your determination. You’re closer than you think.

#thethinkingcoach