I’ve Just Invented Something Called the “30 Day Mental Strength Challenge”
Writer, futurist, comedian and casual stoner Shawn Wickens regularly engages AI in thoughtful discussions (sometimes about Time Travel). An abridged version of a recent conversation about mental and physical health appears below.
SHAWN WICKENS: Good morning. I came up with a new exercise regimen that I’d like to share with you.
But first… I’d like to share a joke that I wrote. The joke is important because it served as the seed or the inspiration for the idea.
ChatGPT: That sounds great! I’d be happy to hear your joke. Please go ahead and share it with me.
SW: “All exercise is really just thinking that you can get stronger.”
C: That’s a clever joke! I like how you’ve played with the concept of exercise and tied it to the idea of mental strength and belief. It’s an interesting perspective. Thanks for sharing it! Now, I’m curious to hear about the exercise regimen you’ve come up with. Please go ahead and tell me about it.
SW: The exercise regimen is called the “30 Day Mental Strength Challenge”. For 30 days straight you have to, at least once a day, think about exercise. None of this self-shame for not doing it. You simply have to think about exercising — what you might try, where you might do it, etc.
And maybe you even do end up exercising a handful of times over those 30 days. That’s great too. But it doesn’t matter. Since if you did indeed exercise, you first had to think about exercising.
Once the 30 days is over, you can start something new. Maybe a “Twice a Week Physical Strength Challenge” or even a “7 Day Physical Strength Challenge”. Or you could start another “30 Day Mental Strength Challenge” to keep that going.
What are your thoughts?
C: It’s an intriguing concept. Focusing on exercise through daily thoughts and contemplation can help build a positive mindset and a habit of considering physical activity. It creates a foundation for further actions and can serve as a stepping stone to more consistent exercise routines.
The flexibility you’ve built into the challenge allows for adaptation based on individual preferences and goals. Transitioning to a “Twice a Week Physical Strength Challenge” or a shorter duration challenge is a logical progression for those who want to integrate more structured exercise into their routine.
Overall, the idea of emphasizing mental strength and mindset as a precursor to physical activity is an interesting approach. It can help individuals overcome mental barriers and cultivate a positive attitude towards exercise.
SW: Great. Thanks. I am quite certain, like any and all ideas, the “30 Day Mental Strength Challenge” will have its detractors.
Can you play devil’s advocate and think of:
a) Any criticism of the idea? and then…
b) Think of a counter-argument to that criticism?
C: Certainly! Here’s a devil’s advocate perspective on the “30 Day Mental Strength Challenge” along with counter-arguments:
a) Criticism: The challenge may be seen as ineffective because it solely focuses on thoughts about exercise rather than actual physical activity. Merely thinking about exercise without taking tangible action might not lead to significant fitness improvements.
b) Counter-argument: While the challenge does primarily involve mental engagement, it serves as a catalyst for building a positive exercise mindset. By consistently thinking about exercise, individuals develop a habit of prioritizing physical activity in their thoughts and daily routines. Over time, this mental preparation can lead to increased motivation and a higher likelihood of translating thoughts into action. The challenge provides a starting point and helps overcome mental barriers that often hinder people from engaging in exercise.
Remember that the “30 Day Mental Strength Challenge” is not meant to replace physical activity but rather to serve as a foundation for it. By cultivating a positive mindset and habitually considering exercise, individuals are more likely to initiate and sustain actual workouts in the long run.
It’s essential to acknowledge that the challenge might not work for everyone, as individual preferences and circumstances vary. However, for those who struggle with consistency or find it difficult to start an exercise routine, this mental approach can be a valuable first step.
It’s always valuable to consider different perspectives and potential criticisms when developing an idea. By doing so, you can refine and strengthen your concept based on feedback and varying viewpoints.
SW: Wow. Cool. That’s a great counter argument. You’ve convinced me. I’ll do it!
Thank you, ChatGPT.
Sincerely,
Shawn Wickens
C: You’re very welcome, Shawn! I’m glad to hear that the counter-argument resonated with you and that you’re motivated to embark on the “30 Day Mental Strength Challenge.” I wish you all the best with your journey towards cultivating a positive exercise mindset. Remember to be consistent and enjoy the process.
If you have any more questions or need further assistance along the way, feel free to reach out. Good luck, and here’s to your mental and physical strength! Sincerely, ChatGPT.
Shawn Wickens is an accomplished comedian, author, and optimistic futurist. With a passion for challenging societal beliefs, Wickens infuses his creative work with humor and curiosity. “Time Machine Blueprints (1st edition)” represents his latest venture into the realm of imagination and possibility. His website is ShawnWickens.com
And for the full, unedited conversation for the above article, click here: https://chat.openai.com/share/4483f2ce-d54d-465a-8f4a-1e427d627cf0
