Finally Pulling 300#: Lessons on Goal Setting and Letting Go

This week, I accomplished something that had eluded me for years—I deadlifted 300 pounds. For the longest time, that number was my nemesis. 290? Sure. 295? I’d done it. But 300 pounds felt impossible. It wasn’t about strength; it was about the pressure I’d placed on that specific goal.

This time around, my approach changed. I gave myself over a year, allowed setbacks to happen without panicking, experimented with stances, grips, and programming, and embraced a slower, steadier journey. Most importantly, I shifted my mindset. Instead of obsessing over that one number, I saw 300 pounds as just one checkpoint on the way to something even bigger.

When the moment came, my mindset was simple: “Let’s see how I feel.” No stress, no anxiety. Just curiosity and openness. It turned out to be exactly what I needed.

Here’s the thing—no one else cares about that 300-pound lift except me (and maybe my coach). But that’s precisely why achieving it feels so freeing. I’ve moved past something that once felt insurmountable.

I often see this type of goal fixation trip people up. Whether it’s losing exactly 5 pounds or running at precisely an 8-minute mile pace, rigidity can sabotage us. We skip rest days, push past our limits, or beat ourselves up for “failing” to hit arbitrary markers.

This spring, as you start new programs or routines, try setting smaller, flexible goals. Celebrate the incremental progress. Listen to your body. Be compassionate when things don’t go exactly as planned. Trust the process, and you’ll reach your goals in your own perfect timing.