If you’ve ever wondered how to find the right gym or how to finally get results from the one you already belong to, the answer usually comes down to one thing: action. Excuses don’t build strength, lose weight, or boost confidence — consistent effort does. At 10.40.10 Fitness, we’ve seen the difference between “dreamers” who hope for results and “doers” who commit to a plan. The good news? Anyone can shift from dreamer to doer with the right mindset and the right gym environment.
Think about one of your biggest goals. If you’re currently a member at 10.40.10 Fitness, maybe it’s fitness or nutrition related. But this could be any goal - business, parenting, life, you name it. Chances are, there’s a coach out there who can help you accomplish it.
And generally in the world of coaching, there are good cops and bad cops. Good cops are the encouragers. They offer an abundance of motivation, support and the basic rah-rah.
Bad cops are the tough-love coaches. They tell it how it is and remind you (not gently) that no, you can’t have pizza as a reward for crushing today’s workout.
Having both good cops and bad cops as coaches is usually a good thing. Because let’s be honest: we all have moments when tough love keeps us on track. On the flip side, we need someone to keep believing in us when we commit to something and don't succeed the first (or ninth) time.
Dreamers vs. Doers: What Happens When You Join the Right Gym
Over the years at 10.40.10 Fitness, we’ve met with hundreds of Northwest Chicago suburbs residents to talk about a plan for helping them reach their health and wellness goals. These are people from all fitness backgrounds, with goals like losing weight, gaining strength, improving sleep, or building confidence.
But often, with all those different goals come just as many excuses. And just like there are different types of coaches, there are also two types of people: the dreamers and the doers.
Let’s take a look at what that looks like.
The First Gym Conversation: Do You Have a Plan or Just Hope?
Naturally, when we talk to people about starting a fitness plan at 10.40.10 Fitness, we start with goals so that we can figure out the best plan. Then we get into more specific details like schedule and background.
For example, we’ll ask if someone is a morning or evening workout person.
- The doer confidently answers, “Evening. I’ll work out at the end of my work day.”
- The dreamer will pause briefly before asking, “How many workouts are we talking about? I guess I could try mornings.”
Digging a little deeper, maybe we ask about the number of workouts they’re ready to commit to each week.
- “I’ll do a minimum of three each week,” says the doer. “ And when possible, I’ll get a fourth done.”
- The dreamer asks, “Hmmm, maybe three? Is that enough?”
Switching directions, we try to get a little background and discuss what they’ve been doing up to this point, workout-wise.
- The doer responds, “Honestly, it’s been awhile. I used to be in a good routine — I was lifting weights and attending a few cardio classes each week — but then life got in the way and I didn’t make it a priority. I realize that I have to be healthy to take care of those around me, so I’m ready to make a commitment to myself.”
- The dreamer has a different response. “I’ve tried quite a few things. I bought P90X and made it through about 40 days of it, then I signed up at that 24-hour gym but I wasn’t using it so I quit. I went to a cycling studio and I signed up for 23 classes. I only went to seven but I was busy. Then I hired a personal trainer and worked with her for a couple months but I wasn’t seeing results so I fired her. And now I’m here, hoping this will work.”
We ask about nutrition.
- The doer responds, “I could eat better. I know that good nutrition will help my energy, performance and recovery. It’s all part of making my health a priority. Once I have a plan, I’ll follow it.”
- And then there’s the dreamer. “I’ve tried quite a few things. I did Atkins and Paleo but honestly, who can stick to something that strict? I’m about to try Keto because I think that’s what my body needs. I’ll definitely try a nutrition plan if you put one together for me but how many cheat days do I get?”
The difference is clear: one is committed to a plan, and the other is hoping something will work.
Convenience vs. Commitment: Why Most People Struggle at the Gym
There’s a saying: how we do one thing is how we do everything. If you recognize yourself more in the dreamer’s answers, the first step is admitting it. Then, ask if those same habits show up in your work or personal life.
The truth is, nothing worth achieving comes from convenience and comfort. A great fitness journey doesn’t mean you’ll suffer endlessly, but it does mean stepping outside your comfort zone. At 10.40.10 Fitness, our goal is to surround you with coaches and a community that make the process fun and supportive — even when it’s challenging.
As cliche as it sounds, nothing convenient and comfortable is also worthwhile. No, you don’t have to suffer. And yes, the journey will actually be fun when you’re surrounded by a supportive, encouraging community. But you have to be prepared to step outside of your comfort zone.
How to Create an Action Plan That Actually Works
If you’re already a doer, fantastic — keep pushing and don’t be afraid to set even bigger goals. But if you’re more of a dreamer, here are three tips to shift your mindset:
1. Set workout appointments with yourself.
Put them on your calendar like you would a meeting with your boss. You wouldn’t cancel on them — don’t cancel on yourself.
2. Make gradual nutrition changes.
Going from a cheeseburger-and-donut diet to strictly chicken and vegetables is not going to go over well with your mental psyche. Make small tweaks over a period of weeks instead of one quick overhaul.
Also, asking about cheat meals means you’re in a “when is this over” mindset, instead of realizing that eating healthy doesn’t have to be a restriction on delicious foods. You just have to find things you like. You don’t like kale and brussel sprouts? Fine. Don’t eat them. There are plenty of healthy, yummy foods out there and your coach can help you find them.
3. Ditch the “convenient & comfortable” plan.
Keep in mind that changing your fitness and nutrition plan will not be easy, but it will be worth it. In our busy lives, we’re not going to mysteriously find a 25th hour each day. And until they make calorie-free ice cream that tastes like Ben & Jerry’s, you’re going to have to get uncomfortable.
But if you change your attitude (‘Yes, this is tough but I’m tougher’) and priorities (‘I don’t have extra time but I’m choosing to spend my time on things that will make me better’), you’ll set yourself up for success.
How to Find the Right Gym for Lasting Results
Finding success in fitness isn’t about luck — it’s about commitment. If you’ve been wondering how to find the right gym, the answer is simple: look for a place that gives you accountability, support, and a clear plan for results. At 10.40.10 Fitness, we help you cut through the excuses, step outside your comfort zone, and finally achieve the goals you’ve been chasing.
Ready to stop dreaming and start doing? Book your free class today and take the first step toward becoming a doer.
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