I'm 32 and have been going to the gym since 17. It was up until 31 and a half that I was I'd say 80% of the time making sure that I'm eating enough protein, staying hydrated, hitting the weights hard, sleeping more, avoiding alcohol where possible, and generally feeling a baseline of motivation and interest in wanting to engage with all of the above.
I've noticed over the last 6 months since starting a new job that I have only been going to the gym twice a week. I also have been eating more crap than usual and not really caring much about quality sleep or avoiding alcohol if desired.
I've clearly gained weight as a result not much, like 3-4kg. But, it's stayed on me. Not like water weight. This weight is just a part of me now.
My effort in the gym has reduced too. I just go through the motions and sort of feel no real reward from doing it now. I drink a little more alcohol than usual, I eat fast food at least once a week. Shit, I've even hit a vape a few times over the last couple of weeks.
I guess as a single guy who works a lot I sometimes wonder who I'm doing all of this for anyway. I know it's good to be healthy and fit and whatnot. But, it's just me seeing myself in the mirror. I can't say my physique has gained me much in life. I think what's the point of all the upkeep anyway if this is just making me feel like a hamster on a wheel.
tldr, gym guy has lost his motivation and is questioning life and everything else. Why do we do this and so on.