Muscle Building as a Means, Not an End

by David on December 25, 2009

One distinction I feel need to be made is that muscle building should be seen as a means, and not at end. Unfortunately this is something not many guru’s point out (probably because it’d decrease sales).

As with any change in physical appearance, or the way in which you perceive the world looks at you, there will be a slight buzz of achievement which you could ride like a wave for weeks, perhaps months. But at some point that glory ends and if you’re not prepared you could be in a rude shock with a feeling of emptiness.

And this is not to turn you off building some strength – far from it. But just be realistic.

Confidence, peace of mind, and overall happiness – these are mental states and cannot be attained through lifting weights or eating more. You can fuel those fires but eventually they’ll burn out.

So what’s the solution then?

  1. Build muscle with a PURPOSE. Clearly understand why you want to take this journey, and make sure you’re harnessing implicit motivations. Do everything with deliberation and purpose.
  2. See the reality. Putting on a few kilograms won’t solve every problem in your life (unfortunately). For that I’d recommend you head over to Amazon and pick up some books in areas you lack in life. Develop your brain, not just your body.
  3. Clarify the benefits. Will putting on some strength make you feel safe? Allow you to participate in sports you like? Open you up to new experiences? Clarify these benefits and then focus on using ectomorphic training as a means to achieve them.

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