Motivation: it’s empowering, at times elusive, and requires discipline. However, without it there cannot be success.
Finding my motivation, especially when it comes to working out, has been a constant evolution. Often times I find my motivation is a reward or something I have been deprived of. Some of my motivations require a lot of discipline so I understand if they might not work for you, but perhaps they can inspire you to find something that will motivate you to get out and get active.
1. A good book or magazine. If you’re a fan of walking on the treadmill or elliptical at the gym this is a good one. I find a great read I really enjoy and reserve it for the gym only. The catch is, you CANNOT read it unless you’re on that machine. Suggestions I have would be “The Hunger Games”, “Orange is the new Black”, “The Da Vinci Code” or any other read that keeps you turning pages and therefore moving.
2. New songs you love or a station you adore. Have a jam that you really love? A new CD you just acquired? You can also tie in the above “books” idea by getting a book on your device and listening to it. No matter what it may be save it for the times when you’re moving and being active. This one takes a lot of discipline but even just creating a new playlist that you reserve for working out ONLY can be a great motivator and keep you going longer and stronger.
3. Fun clothes for working out. I love finding great clothes to workout in. They lighten and brighten my mood and once I change into them I am instantly ready to get out there and get going! It does not have to cost an arm and a leg for a decent workout wardrobe. If I am out at a store with active clothes available, I check out and see what is on sale. However, if I reach a specific goal I spoil myself with a splurge.
4. Invest in the right equipment. There is nothing worse than getting going and then having a wrench like an injury thrown into the mix. If you have invested in a gym but have never touched a weight in your life, get a half hour personal training session to curb the fear of weights and show you proper form. Getting into walking and/or running? Great shoes ARE A MUST. They will save your joints and keep you going. Yoga your thing? Get a nice mat, towel and water bottle. These things are imperative but can also a little expensive which is another aspect to their motivation. You paid for it so you better use it, right?
5. The last one I’ll leave you with: a PARTNER. There have been days when I do not want to go for jogs or walks and I know that goes for my partner too. Having another person to hold me accountable and whom I know wants/needs me to be there for them is an excellent motivator. Perhaps you like doing it on your own, but having someone hold you accountable and cheer you on or heck, whip your butt into going, can be the difference between, “I’m not feeling it and I’m not doing it,” to “I’m not feeling it but I’ll do it, if not for me, for them.”
No matter what your motivations may be, keep it relevant and recognize when it stops working. You might need to get a little creative but that’s alright, just as long as you are staying active!