You Don't Have To... You GET to

by Grace Lin

I recently read a post about how we talk to ourselves when we approach a workout.  So, it’s a typical day and you come into the gym, put your stuff down, and check out the whiteboard.  The workout is this: 

150 Burpees for time

What do you think to yourself when you read this workout?  Do you think, “I HAVE to 150 burpees”?  Or do you think, “I GET to do 150 burpees”?

I’d take a guess that most people think I “have” to do this.  I am guilty of this too.  Guess what?  You don’t have to do anything.  You get to do it.  You are fortunate and privileged enough to get to come to the gym and workout.  

This same concept goes for many things we don’t necessarily like to do.  For example, doing the dishes, mowing the lawn, cleaning the house, getting an oil change, etc.  There are millions of people less fortunate who don’t even get to do these things.  Millions of people don’t own houses, don’t own cars, don’t have a job, or don’t have enough money for a gym membership.  We are fortunate enough to have all these things!  So, the next time you’re a bit grumpy about doing a workout or a chore, try to change your perspective by saying “I get to do _____” instead of “I have to _____.”

Remember, you don’t have to come to the gym… You get to come to the gym.