When More Isn’t Better

The Building Momentum Podcast | Episode 5

Hosted by Devon McGregor

How do you know when another effort will help, and when you’re adding it because stopping feels uncomfortable?

In this episode, Devon McGregor explores the judgment between pushing and pausing, in training, at work and in everyday life. Beginning with a familiar evening at an open laptop, he asks what our effort is actually making possible. Exhaustion can feel like proof of commitment, but it doesn’t tell us whether we’re becoming more capable of living the life we want.

Drawing on his coaching perspective and written advice from Dr. Greg Wells, Devon considers recovery, the guilt that can accompany rest, and the expectations that shape our days. He also makes room for the realities of caregiving, shift work and workloads that an evening routine cannot solve. The invitation is to notice one decision, understand its purpose and choose a useful next step without judging your character.

In this episode

• Looking beyond exhaustion to the ability you want to build
• Considering recovery alongside training and other demands
• Making room for rest without turning it into another assignment
• Recognising when practical support or changed expectations are needed
• Leaving yourself a clear next step when you decide to pause

A question to take with you

Before adding one more thing, finish this sentence: “What I hope this will help me do is…”

What does building momentum mean to you? Share your thoughts or questions at devon@devonmcgregor.com.

Sources and further reading

Training demands and recovery

Kellmann M et al. Recovery and Performance in Sport: Consensus Statement. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 2018;13(2):240–245.

This expert consensus examines the balance between training, other life demands and recovery in athletes. It supports an individual approach to recovery, rather than a single rule for when everyone should push or pause.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29345524/

Gradual activity and muscle recovery

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Staying Active at Any Size.

This public-health guide recommends starting gradually, matching activity to your circumstances and allowing muscles time to recover between strengthening sessions. It complements the discussion of useful progression; it does not suggest that doing less is always better.

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/staying-active-at-any-size

Persistent or unexplained tiredness

NHS. Tiredness and fatigue.

This guidance advises seeking medical assessment when tiredness has lasted a few weeks without a clear explanation, affects daily life or comes with other symptoms. It also offers practical guidance on winding down before sleep. Persistent exhaustion should not be treated simply as a lack of discipline.

https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/tiredness-and-fatigue/

Dr. Greg Wells’ contribution

Wells’ sleep-first sequence and practical suggestions come from his written answers to Devon’s questions. They are presented as his advice, not as a universal scientific ranking. Devon’s reflections and illustrative scenarios offer a coaching perspective alongside the sources above.

This episode offers general education and coaching perspectives, not individual medical advice. Persistent or unexplained exhaustion deserves a conversation with a qualified health professional.