Wow are my arms sore.

Believe it or not, that isn’t a set-up for another dirty joke. Tho maybe it should be. Well, too late now.

No, today I’m just back from the doctor. Three shots. Blood tests upcoming (including STDs – stay safe kiddies!) Nothing unusual – your basic annual check-up. I expect another clean bill – in fact, I’d be shocked by anything else. Why? I know the time I put in making sure I’m one healthy fit dude.

Now, I’m never going to grace the cover of GQ (few will, few should). Indeed, at my absolute peak I’m a barrel, in a world that values the flipped triangle. And for dating purposes? I don’t give a damn.

There are a few reasons for that. One, it does no good worrying about things well beyond your control. For another, women generally aren’t nearly as visual as men – we have an easier time overcoming imperfections in our appearance, individual preferences aside. It’s wit and confidence that count much more. And, for those who do care, plenty like a guy who’s got the muscle mass to bounce them around (and those ladies can be quite fun, trust).

But, beyond that… better than looking good… is that aura of confidence that comes from working well.

Rule #74: Work On It

I honestly don’t give a damn what you look like.

Ah, I can’t say that. I do care – I’ve my own superficial peccadillos.

But, more important than how you look, is how you carry yourself. And I’ll tell you what – if I’ve got a genetically gifted lady lucky enough to live inside a birthday suit of immaculate perfection, who lazes around all day waiting for the world to come to her… and beside her is one with a physical flaw or five who’s hitting the gym thrice a week and glowing with that inner peace of self-realization, I’ll choose the latter.

Not everyone will – not every time. The more superficial a relationship you seek, the more superficial your choices will be.

But there’s an ephemeral quality to someone dedicated to being their best self. Not to sound too new-agey, but c’mon – you know it’s true. In fact, most of the time the physically fit are attractive – at a base level – because we’re getting a visual manifestation of triathletic dedication.

Do you need that? Hey, it helps – but anyone working on themselves carries the same essential aura. That’s the important thing. Don’t be frustrated by your imperfections – focus on your improvements. Everything else flows from there. Put in the time, your rewards will come.

And don’t worry – the snark is about to return…