Lately, it feels like every conversation turns into an all-or-nothing debate. Either something is good or bad, right or wrong, helpful or harmful. But life doesn't work that way. There's almost always a middle ground, yet so many people struggle to see it.
If you've ever found yourself frustrated by black-and-white thinking—whether in running, training, or everyday life—you're not alone. Understanding nuance takes effort, and most people aren't naturally wired for it. But if you're an athlete looking to improve, embracing complexity is one of the best things you can do.
The Brain Likes Shortcuts
Our brains are designed to save energy. Thinking critically about every single situation takes time, so we rely on mental shortcuts. This works great when deciding what to eat for lunch but not when tackling big ideas.
Confirmation bias plays a huge role in this. If we already believe something, we're more likely to notice information that supports it and ignore anything that challenges it. This makes it easy to stick with simple, familiar narratives instead of digging deeper.
Emotion Clouds Judgment
Ever tried to have a nuanced conversation about a controversial topic? It usually doesn’t go well. That’s because emotions override logic. When people feel attacked or defensive, they shut down instead of opening up to new perspectives.
This happens in training, too. Maybe you've been told that a certain type of workout is "bad" or that there's only one right way to improve. But real progress happens when you're willing to ask, "What if there's more to the story?"
Social Media Rewards Extremes
Platforms like Instagram and Threads aren't built for depth. They reward hot takes, quick reactions, and viral soundbites. The more extreme an opinion is, the more attention it gets. This creates an environment where people double down on simple answers instead of engaging with complexity.
For athletes, this can be a real problem. If you're constantly exposed to messages like "run every day or you're not serious" or "lifting makes runners slow," you might miss out on strategies that could actually help you.
The Power of Thinking in Gray Areas
Learning to see nuance isn't just an intellectual exercise. It’s a skill that can change how you train, compete, and grow. When you stop looking for simple answers and start asking better questions, everything shifts.
Instead of "Is this training plan good or bad?" ask, "How does this fit my needs right now?"
Instead of "Should I push harder or rest?" ask, "What does my body actually need today?"
This kind of thinking leads to better decisions, fewer injuries, and more sustainable progress.
Work With Me
If you're tired of one-size-fits-all advice and want a coach who helps you navigate the gray areas, I’d love to work with you. My approach is built on understanding what actually works for you—not just following trends or rigid rules. Whether it’s running, strength training, or navigating the changes that come with age, I’m here to help you find what fits.
Want to take the next step? Reach out, and let's talk about how we can work together.