Staying Motivated
Are you one of those people who’s bored with your workout? How many times have you said, “I don’t have time.” How about, “I’m not feeling it today…” or maybe you start to getting into a routine and are feeling great only to be derailed by social situations or life distractions? If so, take a few minutes to read a few tidbits that might make a little sense and heck, half of them you probably already know but have been unwilling to make the connection!
Let’s examine the daunting process staying motivated. We’ve all been there. You’ve made the decision to get yourself in shape for that Summer vacation, your friends wedding or the dreaded doctor visit of doom has you out of sorts. All these factors contribute to your overall motivation, but they should not be your sole source of inspiration. Each person who undertakes the endeavor to work out must recognize that no matter how dedicated you are at first, something can derail you. That’s where finding multiple sources of inspiration work best.
Try to find ways to reach your goals by identifying what inspires you most, whether that’s working out in a gym, running, hiking, or just exploring.
For example, working out for the goal of better health seems the most noble, but thinking you “have to do it” because of your health could make you feel trapped. So, find ways to reach your goals by finding what inspires you. Maybe working out at a gym isn’t the most ideal situation for you every day. Well, just because you aren’t running ten miles on an indoor treadmill doesn’t mean a brisk hike in a local park can’t elevate your heart rate, burn some quality calories and train the mind as well! Sometimes these minor excursions aren’t exactly what we expected as a workout, but sometimes they do the trick to keep you motivated.
As each day passes, an opportunity arises that will ultimately cause you to make a decision: do I go to the gym or skip it to do scenario..a.)…b.)…c.)…etc. Each time this occurs and you choose to to the latter, make sure the scenario helps you or your goals will ultimately suffer. Basic economics teaches us that with each opportunity we take we forego what might be another. The choice is yours to make the right decision about how you spend your time. Remember, a fun night out with friends can turn into hours of hard work lost. Keep it in perspective!
Motivation ultimately has to come within. This cliche rings true as ever when it comes to working out and getting in shape. The factors listed above and the millions of other possible scenarios only scratch the surface of what should drive you or help keep you away from negative behavior. Staying motivated requires determination to achieve what you ultimately set out to do. But, if you keep in mind that…working out should not be a chore, it should be a lifelong endeavor that stimulates you in many ways. If you can do that, then you can probably find the joy in any physical activity and how it can benefit you.
Keep moving!
