Muscles grow by tearing a little and repairing stronger. Some weeks you’re in the tearing part.

Growth includes a phase that feels exactly like damage, and during it there is no visible reward at all. Strain first, repair after, and the gap between them is where most people conclude the whole thing is not working. Discomfort there is not proof of a mistake; it is the middle of a process with a delay built in. Nothing looks like progress on the day it costs the most.

Before deciding something is failing, ask how long you have actually been at it. Give repair its time, meaning sleep, food and a day off. Judge the result after the rest rather than during the strain.