As the year winds down, tons of people have started writing down their 2026 goals, many of which focus on health and fitness. Whether it’s finally hitting the gym consistently, losing 20 pounds, or building healthier habits, the intentions are there. But more people will fall off as the months go on, and only about one percent will see their goals through to the end of the year.
Success in keeping these resolutions isn’t about a secret shortcut or hack. Rather, it’s about shifting your mindset, being consistent, and doing the work when nobody’s watching, which is a principle Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson lives by.
Over the weekend, Johnson shared a video of himself on a 4:45 a.m. walk to the gym for an early morning cardio session. He reflected on a question he’s asked frequently: “What’s the life hack to success?”
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His answer was simple: there is no secret. Work begets work, he said. Earlier in his career, he would measure himself against others, asking: “What am I willing to do that others aren’t?” But over time, he realized that comparing himself to anyone else wasn’t the key. Now, he only focuses on himself and what he’s willing to do.
“This mindset keeps me focused on the things I need to do, the things I can control, like my effort, my gratitude, my peace—as opposed to constantly thinking about what the next guy is doing. These days, I serve an audience of one. Give it a shot, and get to work,” he shared on Instagram.
Anyone starting their fitness journey in 2026, and even those who have been at it for a while, can learn a valuable lesson from Johnson. His mindset shift is key to long-term adherence to the daily habits that support your bigger goals. Instead of getting discouraged by what others are achieving, focus on your own actions, effort, and the habits you can control.
