You're Not Optimizing, You're Avoiding: Why Perfect Plans Keep You Stuck

You've spent the last three weeks researching training programs.

You've got spreadsheets comparing volume landmarks across different methodologies. You've watched every YouTube video from credible coaches. You've cross-referenced recommendations against the latest research. You know exactly what Mike Israetel says about MEV, what Renaissance Periodization recommends for frequency, and how your favourite IFBB pro structures her splits.

But you still haven't started training.

Here's what's actually happening: You're not optimizing. You're avoiding.

The Research Trap

Let me be clear—being evidence-based is a strength. Doing your homework before making decisions is smart. But there's a line between thorough preparation and using research as a security blanket to avoid the discomfort of committing.

And you, my friend, have crossed it.

I see this constantly with high-achieving clients. They come to me with questions that would make a PhD candidate proud: "Should I be training at 70% or 75% of 1RM? What if my fibre type distribution means I respond better to different rep ranges? How do I know if I'm optimizing my training around my menstrual cycle?"

These are good questions. But here's the thing: you don't get to know the answers until you start collecting data on yourself.

Why Smart People Get Stuck

The perfectionism that made you successful in your career is now working against you. You're used to environments where preparation prevents mistakes—where doing your research means you can execute flawlessly.

But fitness doesn't work that way.

There is no perfect program. There is no optimal protocol that works for everyone. The "best" approach is the one you'll actually do consistently for 12 weeks while collecting data on how YOUR body responds.

The uncomfortable truth? The gap between a "good" program and an "optimal" program is maybe 5-10% in outcomes. But the gap between researching programs and actually training? That's 100%.

What You're Really Afraid Of

This isn't about finding the perfect program. It's about your fear of being wrong.

If you pick the "wrong" program, you've wasted time. If you commit fully and it doesn't work, you've failed. And failure—even small, inconsequential failure in a single training block—feels like proof that you're not as competent as you need to be.

So you stay in research mode. Because as long as you're still deciding, you can't fail.

The Decision Framework You Actually Need

Here's how you break the cycle:

1. Set your "good enough" threshold at 80%

If you've found a program that checks 80% of your boxes and comes from a credible source, that's your green light. Not because it's perfect, but because it's good enough to generate useful data.

2. Commit to the minimum viable timeline

Most programs need 6-8 weeks before you have meaningful data. That's your commitment. Not forever. Not even 12 weeks yet. Just long enough to know if this direction is working.

3. Define your decision points in advance

Before you start, write down: "I'll know this is working if X happens by week 4" and "I'll know I need to adjust if Y happens." Then trust those criteria instead of second-guessing every session.

Your Next 48 Hours

Stop researching. You already know enough.

Pick a program that's 80% aligned with your goals. If you can't decide between two, flip a coin—I'm serious. The delta between them is smaller than the cost of another week of indecision.

Set your calendar. Block your training times. Tell someone you're starting.

Then start.

You'll learn more about what works for your body in the first two weeks of consistent training than you will in six months of research. And here's the best part: whatever you learn, you can adjust. Nothing is permanent. But nothing changes if you never begin.

The difference between where you are and where you want to be isn't more information. It's taking action with the information you already have.

If you're tired of spinning your wheels in analysis paralysis and want a coach who will help you make evidence-based decisions without the overthinking, book a call. We specialize in working with high achievers who need someone to call them on their bullshit while providing the structure to actually execute.

Stay Strong,

Paul Oneid, MS. MS. CSCS

Founder and Head Coach