One of my best friends and I are fascinated by Lenny Kravitz. We’re not so much fangirling or crushing as just being in awe of an incredible human.
His viral April 2024 workouts in denim or leather made us stop in our tracks and hit “watch again” on Instagram, over and over.
“You see, it’s not like I look at him and want to be WITH him,” she says, “I look at him, and I want to BE LIKE him.”
Fair enough.
He is unbelievably fit at sixty years old, effortlessly stylish, shockingly talented, and, of course, a super cool human all around. For example, he maintained a harmonious relationship with his ex, Lisa Bonet, for decades while they co-raised Zoey Kravitz and remained tight long after they needed to collaborate.
Kravitz is definitely what you aspire to be when you grow up.
The Guardian’s interview with the musician in May further solidified his legend and added some colour and context to the human behind the legend.
When it comes down to it, it’s not glamorous at all—it's good old-fashioned self-care, discipline, perseverance, and taking responsibility for oneself.
This physique, this talent, this inner peace—it did not happen overnight. He speaks about overcoming bad habits of being a player, slugging out a 2 a.m. workout because that’s the only time, embracing clean living, and even remaining celibate until he finds the right woman.
The relentless and prolonged dedication reminded me of James Clear’s Atomic Habits, where small changes and repeated habits can eventually compound into significant changes. Clear’s work can also be summed up by Aristotle’s quote, “You are what you repeatedly do,” as in, your good habits will start to shape your identity.
What also resonated was that I got the sense that it's still difficult even now - what seems to be his ultimate glory. It still works, even when it doesn’t always feel glamorous.
As someone working on making changes and tirelessly disciplining myself into better habits. It doesn’t always feel like anything is working or improving. Yet, surprisingly, sometimes I will hear evidence of the contrary.
When my daughter uses me as an example in her social studies project of people she looks up to. When someone mentions how a family friend wants to hear my opinion on something. When I admitted to my boss that I felt overwhelmed - more so about life than work but with general concern that it might impact my work - she looked surprised, “But you look great and seem like you have all your shit together!”
Regarding the latter, I almost snorted out my water.
Maybe it’s a lot of just striving, trying and acting like you’re on the path, even if you secretly can’t see it. That tiring “fake it until you make it” cliche.
What truly stands out about Kravitz or about anyone who seemingly has their proverbial shit together is that there usually is a lot of work, consistency and an epic continuous improvement journey decades in the making to create this image.
Lenny Kravitz’s influence extends far beyond his immediate circle. By living a life that embodies discipline, authenticity, and perseverance, he becomes a powerful role model for others. This impact is felt by fans and anyone who encounters his story, highlighting the importance of positive role models in shaping our aspirations and actions.
This is why his journey—and the ground we cover on our personal passages—is so important. The constant and sometimes ruthless path to self-improvement is not just for us but also for those watching.