Ever feel like you’re showing up and putting in the work, but somehow, it doesn’t seem to add up? Building Strength Without Self-Judgment in Midlife can be tricky, especially when you’ve set a strength goal—like lifting heavier, trying a new move, or just feeling stronger every day—but it feels like no matter what you do, it’s never quite enough. Sound familiar?

In today’s episode, we’re diving into that feeling we know too well: the self-judgment that sneaks in and makes us feel like we should be further along. We’ll unpack why this happens, especially for those of us in midlife, and how to let go of those ‘shoulds’ that don’t serve us. Instead, we’ll focus on a new way to look at progress that actually feels good.

Take, for example, a recent conversation with a frustrated client about her pull-up progress. She found herself thinking, “I should be stronger by now.” And this wasn’t just about pull-ups; it was about that nagging feeling of “not good enough.” We often carry an invisible checklist of where we think we should be, which adds unnecessary pressure. 

In this episode, we’ll examine why “shoulds” are so common and how letting go of them can help us celebrate small wins. We’ll also discuss redefining strength as a physical measure, resilience, persistence, and showing up for ourselves.

By the end, you’ll have simple, practical tools to shift your mindset, letting you celebrate the strength you’re building without frustration. This episode is about making fitness feel like a win for you—because you deserve to see and feel how far you’ve come. Tune in and start building strength with kindness and self-compassion.

Take Action:

If you want to become stronger mentally and physically, check out the Pursue Your Spark Blueprint. This 8-week program is designed for midlife women ready to make fundamental, lasting changes without self-judgment. Click this link to see if you’re a good fit for the program.

Links mentioned:

• Ep. 211 Midlife Mindset Shifts To Strength and Flexibility 
• Pursue Your Spark Blueprint

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Heike Yates Host Pursue Your Spark Podcast

Heike Yates, a Midlife Mindset and Fitness Coach is a powerhouse in fitness, nutrition, and mindset with over 35 years of expertise. She breaks down the complexities of midlife wellness into simple, actionable steps to start taking action today.

But don’t mistake her for someone helping you get by in midlife—Heike’s all about helping you thrive. She’s transforming not just bodies but lives with her unique approach to getting active, eating right, and boosting energy. When she’s not coaching or behind the mic, catch her outdoors, pushing her limits as a triathlete or embarking on a new adventure.