My Non-Negotiables After 10 Years on a Fitness Journey

Ten years.

A full decade of sweat, setbacks, breakthroughs, early mornings, and more “I don’t feel like it” moments than I can count. But if there’s one thing this journey has taught me, it’s this:

Discipline is built on the non-negotiables you commit to—especially on the days you don’t feel like showing up.

Today, I want to share the simple but powerful non-negotiables that have shaped my fitness lifestyle. None of these are extreme. None require perfection. But taken together? They’ve changed my body, my energy, and my confidence. And if you commit to even a few of them—they can change your life too.

1. I Don’t Skip Workouts Two Days in a Row

Missing a day happens. Life is messy. But two days?

That’s momentum in the wrong direction.

My rule keeps me accountable without forcing perfection.

2. I Invest in Good Workout Shoes

Your feet carry you through every rep, step, and squat.

Good shoes aren’t a luxury—they’re a necessity. My workouts improved instantly once I stopped buying the cheapest sneakers I could find.

3. I Prioritize Protein

Protein isn’t just for bodybuilders. It fuels recovery, builds lean muscle, and keeps cravings from hijacking your goals. If I’m not intentional, I simply don’t get enough—so this became a non-negotiable.

4. I Hit My Daily Step Goal—Even if It’s Not Perfect

Some days I hit 10k. Some days it’s 7k.

But I always move.

Motion is medicine, and consistency beats perfection every time.

5. I Wear Cute Workout Clothes

Yes, this matters!

When I feel good, I show up better. Cute leggings have gotten me through many days when motivation was low.

6. I Read the Labels on My Food

If I’m putting it in my body, I need to know what it is.

Ingredients matter. Awareness matters. The more informed I became, the better my choices got.

7. I Schedule My Workout Like a Meeting

My workout is an appointment with myself—one I refuse to cancel.

Treat it like something sacred, not optional.

8. I Meal Plan or Meal Prep

Not prepping leads to guessing.

Guessing leads to overeating or undereating.

Planning gives me control, clarity, and calm.

9. I Work Out on Vacation

Because fitness isn’t a phase—it’s a lifestyle.

Vacations refresh me, but they don’t interrupt my routine. A quick hotel workout keeps me grounded no matter where I am.

10. I Take My Supplements—Especially Magnesium Glycinate

This one is small but mighty. Magnesium glycinate has been essential for reducing muscle soreness and improving recovery. When I’m consistent, my workouts feel better—and so does my sleep.

11. Bonus: I Don’t Demonize Carbs—Including Eba

Let me say it loud:

Carbs are not the enemy.

You can eat eba. You can love your food.

Just fit it into your macros and keep it moving.

Your Turn: What Will Be Your Non-Negotiables?

Your life won’t change because you found the “perfect plan.”

It will change when you commit to small, meaningful non-negotiables that build consistency, confidence, and momentum.

Start with one.

Then add another (Habit Stacking).

Then watch your life shift.

You deserve that transformation too.

Now go create your list. 💛✨

Until next time, remember you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.

Dami. O