When it comes to strength training, we often talk about setting goals, pushing limits, and staying consistent. But there’s one underlying factor that often gets overlooked: the importance of maintaining high standards for yourself. Whether you’re new to lifting or a seasoned athlete, having high standards isn’t just about chasing big numbers—it’s about cultivating the mindset and discipline that lead to lasting success.
Here’s why holding yourself to high standards is crucial for your strength training journey.
1. High Standards Set the Tone for Discipline
Strength training isn’t just a physical endeavor; it’s a mental one. Showing up to the gym consistently, following a program, and prioritizing recovery require discipline. If your standards for yourself are low, it’s easy to skip workouts, ignore proper form, or skimp on sleep and nutrition. High standards push you to honor your commitments, even when motivation wanes.
For example, think about your squat form. Are you satisfied with "good enough," or do you strive to perfect your technique, ensuring every rep builds strength and reduces injury risk? High standards drive you to do the hard, sometimes tedious work that sets you apart from the average lifter.
2. They Help You Avoid Complacency
Plateaus are a natural part of strength training, but they’re also where many people get stuck. High standards prevent you from settling for mediocrity. Instead of accepting a stalled deadlift PR, you’ll look for ways to break through—whether it’s by refining your technique, adjusting your program, or dialing in your recovery.
Complacency can creep in when you’re not holding yourself accountable to grow. High standards act as your internal coach, reminding you to keep striving for progress, no matter where you are in your journey.
3. They Build Confidence and Self-Respect
There’s a unique sense of pride that comes from meeting—or exceeding—your own expectations. When you set high standards and consistently reach them, you’re sending yourself a powerful message: “I am capable.” This builds confidence and a deep sense of self-respect that carries over into every area of your life.
Imagine the difference between completing a rushed, half-hearted workout versus one where you give 100% focus and effort. The latter leaves you with a sense of accomplishment, knowing you didn’t cut corners. That’s the power of holding yourself to high standards.
4. High Standards Inspire Others
Strength training isn’t just a solo pursuit. Whether you realize it or not, your attitude and actions can influence those around you. When you hold yourself to high standards, you set an example for your gym community, training partners, and even friends and family.
Your commitment to excellence might inspire someone else to improve their form, stay consistent, or approach their own goals with renewed vigor. By striving to be your best, you create a ripple effect that benefits others.
5. They Keep You Aligned with Your Long-Term Vision
Why did you start strength training in the first place? Maybe you wanted to get stronger, improve your health, or challenge yourself in new ways. High standards keep you aligned with those long-term goals, ensuring you don’t stray off course.
For instance, skipping a workout or neglecting your nutrition might seem inconsequential in the moment, but over time, those small lapses add up. High standards act as a compass, guiding your daily actions to reflect the bigger picture of what you want to achieve.
How to Raise Your Standards in Strength Training
If you’re ready to hold yourself to higher standards, here are a few practical steps to get started:
Define Your Non-Negotiables: Identify the habits and practices that are essential for your progress, such as proper form, consistent training, and adequate recovery.
Set Process Goals: Focus on the daily actions that lead to success, like completing your planned workouts or hitting your protein target, rather than solely chasing outcome goals.
Seek Feedback: High standards don’t mean perfection. Be open to learning and improving by seeking feedback from coaches, training partners, or even recording your lifts to assess your form.
Celebrate Progress, Not Just Perfection: Acknowledge the small wins along the way. High standards should motivate you, not paralyze you with pressure.
Surround Yourself with Like-Minded People: Train with individuals who also hold themselves to high standards. Their energy and commitment will help elevate your own.
Having high standards for yourself in strength training isn’t about being overly critical or expecting perfection. It’s about setting a foundation of discipline, growth, and self-respect that propels you forward. When you hold yourself to a higher level, you unlock your true potential—both in the gym and beyond.
So, ask yourself: Are your current standards helping you become the best version of yourself? If not, it might be time to raise the bar.
If you’re ready to set the bar higher, we can help. Book your free “no sweat” intro at axisstrengthtraining.com and let’s get started!
-Jason
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