Have you ever watched a movie where the protagonist embarks on a life-changing journey? One moment, they’re out of shape, heartbroken, or clueless, and then—BAM!—a three-minute montage later, they’re fit, successful, and radiating wisdom like they just unlocked the secret to life. Meanwhile, here I am, walking in circles to hit my step goal, waiting for my smartwatch to acknowledge my suffering, and wondering why my transformation isn’t happening in 180 cinematic seconds.

Lately, transition videos on social media have made me even more envious. You see someone put an onion on the counter, snap their fingers, and next thing you know, it’s perfectly chopped and sizzling in the pan. Meanwhile, I’m here wrestling with an onion that refuses to be peeled, wiping away tears like I just watched Kal Ho Naa Ho, and questioning all my life choices.

Wouldn’t it be amazing if real life worked like that? Imagine skipping all the hunger pangs while dieting—just snap your fingers and boom, you’re full. Or skipping the lower back pain from walking for weight loss—one quick hand gesture and you’re suddenly fit, with abs and all. No waiting. No suffering. Just results.

But, of course, life doesn’t work that way. Life wants you to feel everything—the soreness, the cravings, the failed attempts at cooking a “simple” meal that somehow turns into a disaster. Because, as much as I hate to admit it, that’s how real transformation happens. If we could fast-forward through all the struggles, would we even appreciate the outcome?

So, while I’d love a montage or a magical transition, I suppose I’ll keep chopping my onions the hard way, taking my slow, painful steps toward fitness, and embracing the chaos of real life. Because when I do get there—wherever there is—I’ll know I earned it.

Later.

Jd