In a recent LinkedIn post, Mario Hernandez explores the often-overlooked importance of the “middle” – the messy, unglamorous period of progress where real growth occurs. Hernandez contrasts the common tendency to showcase only finished successes with his personal commitment to documenting the journey, even when it feels incomplete.
He highlights the disconnect between the polished final versions we often present and the raw effort involved in reaching them. “I’ve noticed we’re all very good at showing the finished version: The company after the growth. The body after the transformation. The deal after it closes. The photo after everything starts working,” Hernandez writes.
Hernandez emphasizes that this “middle” phase is where the most critical work happens, a sentiment he is actively embracing in both his personal fitness and his entrepreneurial endeavors.
The Unseen Work of Progress
The business leader draws a parallel between his current fitness journey and his approach to building a business. He candidly shares his experience with jump-roping, admitting that progress isn’t always linear or impressive. “Some days it feels good. Some days it feels like I’ve made absolutely no progress,” he confesses. Yet, the core of his philosophy lies in consistency and intentionality.
According to Hernandez, the key is to “Show up. Do the work. Learn. Adjust. Repeat.” This disciplined approach, he argues, is fundamental not just to physical transformation but also to the iterative process of business development. He observes that in business, as in fitness, there’s a “tendency to wait until you have the great result before you tell the story.”
Documenting the Founder’s Journey
Hernandez articulates a deliberate shift in his own strategy, moving away from waiting for perfect outcomes. “I’m trying not to do that anymore. I’d rather document the climb while I’m in it,” he states. This commitment to transparency serves not only as a personal accountability measure but also as a potential source of inspiration and relatable content for others navigating similar challenges.
In Hernandez’s view, sharing the process, with all its uncertainties and daily efforts, is more valuable than waiting for a finished product. He explains, “Because this is the part where the real work is happening.” This perspective challenges the often-curated narratives of success prevalent in business circles.
A Commitment to Holistic Growth
Beyond business and fitness, Hernandez extends this philosophy of continuous improvement to his personal life. He sets a clear, forward-looking goal: “I want to be a little better in six months than I am today.” This ambition encompasses multiple facets of his identity: “Physically. As a founder. As a husband. As a father. As a person.”
Hernandez concludes his post by reaffirming his dedication to this ongoing process, noting, “Friday afternoon. Back to the rope.” His message is a powerful reminder that consistent effort in the “middle” stages, however imperfect, is the true engine of meaningful and sustainable achievement.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Mario Hernandez on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on September 4, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →