Stop Wishing, Start Doing: Build Strength Through Action

Guest Post - Nat Galloway

How many times have you caught yourself saying, “I wish I had their body,” or “I wish I had their strength”?

At first glance, these phrases might seem harmless, but they reveal a mindset that holds you back. Brian Tracy calls this victim language—words that express desire without the commitment or energy to take action.

When it comes to fitness, powerlifting, or chasing that elusive PR, these words can be the difference between staying stuck and achieving your goals.

"I Wish" – The Language of Inaction

When you say, “I wish I could squat 500 lbs,” or “I wish I could run a sub-6-minute mile,” what you’re really saying is, “I’d like that result, but I don’t believe I have the ability to make it happen.”

This mindset drains your motivation and stops you from putting in the work to achieve your goals. Wishing is passive. Action is powerful.

Instead, replace “I wish” with “I will.”

• Say, “I will squat 500 lbs, and I’ll follow a plan to get there.”

• Say, “I will run that PR, and I’ll focus on consistent training to make it happen.”

This small shift in language reflects a big shift in mindset. You’re no longer hoping for success—you’re committing to it.

"I’ll Try" – A Warning Sign of Giving Up

Another common phrase that holds us back is “I’ll try.”

• “I’ll try to hit depth on my squats.”

• “I’ll try to stick to my nutrition plan this week.”

When you say “I’ll try,” you’re already giving yourself an escape route. It’s like saying, “I’m probably going to fail, but at least I warned you.”

Replace “I’ll try” with one of two options:

• “I will do it.” Commit fully, whether it’s getting that squat PR or nailing your meal prep.

• “I won’t do it.” Be honest with yourself. It’s better to make a clear decision than to give a half-hearted effort.

"I Would Like To" – The Self-Defeating Belief

Phrases like “I would like to deadlift 600 lbs, but I’m just not strong enough,” sabotage your progress before you even begin. This mindset is filled with doubt and excuses, leaving no room for growth.

Instead, say:

• “I will deadlift 600 lbs, and I’ll focus on building my strength step by step.”

• “I will stick to my training plan and push through challenges along the way.”

This shift empowers you to take ownership of your journey, whether it’s chasing a PR, building strength, or overcoming obstacles in your fitness journey.

Take Control of Your Goals

Your words shape your reality. If you want to hit that next PR or overcome a plateau, stop wishing and start acting. Take ownership of your goals, commit to the process, and stay consistent.

Here’s your challenge for the week:

1. Identify one area where you’ve been stuck in “I’ll try” or “I wish” thinking.

2. Replace it with “I will,” and commit to taking one actionable step toward that goal.

For example:

• If you’ve been struggling to run a faster mile, commit to specific speed intervals this week.

• If you’ve been plateauing in your deadlift, commit to addressing weak points like grip or lockout strength.

Remember: Success isn’t about wishing or trying—it’s about showing up and doing the work.

If you'd like to work on buidling strength through action, book a call with me or one the coaches at www.masterathletic.com

Nat Galloway

Coach, Master Athletic Performance