Throw Your Hula Hoop Farther: Embrace Change for Growth, Health, and Success

Change isn’t easy. It’s demanding, challenging, and often scary. But here’s the truth: it’s also unavoidable. Time doesn’t stand still, and neither does life. Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or professional juggling countless responsibilities, you know that staying still means falling behind.

So, here’s the big question: is change happening to you, for you, or by you? The choice is yours, and the impact is massive. Take control, and you can grow stronger, healthier, and more successful. Resist it, and it can still push you forward—but at a much higher cost.

I was recently featured in The Good Men Project talking about how embracing change drives personal and professional growth. One point I want to expand on is the "hula hoop" analogy I shared.

A Hula Hoop of Opportunity

Let’s borrow an analogy from a conversation I had with an ultramarathon runner. He likened life’s comfort zone to a hula hoop. Most people keep the hoop snugly around them, shuffling forward step by step, never really stepping outside its boundaries. But what if you grabbed that hoop, hurled it as far as you could, and then ran to meet it? That’s where the real magic of growth happens—when you push yourself beyond what feels safe and easy.

Why Change Works: Lessons from Life and Training

Change doesn’t just happen to your business or career—it’s deeply tied to how your body and mind function. Here’s why leaning into change can transform you from the inside out:

1. Adaptability Builds Resilience

• Why it’s effective: Being adaptable means you can handle life’s curveballs with confidence. The more adaptable you are, the faster and smarter you bounce back from setbacks.
• How it works: Think of adaptability as a muscle. Every time you step out of your comfort zone—whether it’s tackling a new project or learning a skill—you strengthen your ability to cope with stress. Over time, this mental “training” makes challenges feel smaller and your confidence soar.

2. Physical Changes Boost Energy and Health

• Why it’s effective: Change often involves improving habits—like eating better or moving more—which pays off in spades for your body.
• How it works: When you incorporate exercise or adopt healthier routines, your body starts working more efficiently. You feel more energised, your immune system strengthens, and your productivity skyrockets. Small, consistent physical changes create ripple effects across all areas of life.

3. Mental Agility Keeps You Sharp

• Why it’s effective: Challenging yourself with new experiences and ideas stimulates your brain, keeping it active and sharp.
• How it works: Learning rewires your brain. Each time you master something unfamiliar—whether it’s public speaking or a new strategy—you create new neural pathways. This not only boosts cognitive function but helps you think faster and more creatively.

4. Financial Benefits of Proactive Change

• Why it’s effective: Staying ahead of the game means recognising opportunities early and adapting your strategies to seize them.
• How it works: By investing in learning and development, you stay informed about industry trends and market shifts. This gives you a competitive edge, helping you make smarter, faster decisions that protect and grow your finances.

5. Stronger Relationships Through Change

• Why it’s effective: Change often requires collaboration and communication. When you prioritise connection, you build a stronger support network.
• How it works: Whether it’s within a team or with clients, navigating change together fosters trust. By listening, sharing, and working towards common goals, you create bonds that drive mutual success.

A Personal Mission: Fit For Life and Business

I get it—change isn’t easy. Years ago, I found myself overwhelmed, overworked, and overweight. My business was thriving, but my health wasn’t. I’d gone from 88kg to 154kg, and the doctor’s warnings were ringing in my ears. I was stuck, frustrated, and felt powerless to turn it around.

But then I made a choice. I hired a coach, changed my habits, and started seeing results—not just in my body but in every aspect of my life. That transformation inspired me to create Fit For Business, a movement dedicated to helping professionals like you take control of your health, energy, and focus.

Your Turn to Throw the Hoop

Here’s the takeaway: don’t shuffle inside your hula hoop. Throw it as far as you can. Push yourself beyond what feels easy, and see how far you can go. Change might be tough, but it’s the key to unlocking your potential.

Your career, your health, and your happiness are all within your control. So grab that hoop, aim high, and start running. Your future self will thank you.

The full story of Martins's transformation is featured in The Good Men Project. You can read the original article here.