5 Ways to Motivate Yourself

Exercise and Healthy Living

For many people, gaining the motivation to workout or eat healthy is one of the most challenging parts of starting a new healthy lifestyle. Motivation is something that you have to find on your own, because in reality you are the only one who wants to achieve your goals. You are the one who is in charge of your life and how you want to live it. No one else can want it more than you do. So take the reins on your life and search within yourself and find what motivates you to succeed! Simply put… go out there and get it! To help you succeed in all of the goals you set forth to achieve, I have put together 5 tips on getting motivated. Understand, that you will have bad days, but you have to continue pushing forward. Don’t let anything keep you from what you want in life. As time goes on, it will begin to get easier. So do not give up. 1.) Step 1- Write it Down This is my go to first step for everyone that I work with. When we write things down, we feel more accountable. It is on paper, it is visible, and it is not going away. (*Unless you have a really good eraser, but that’s not the point) Right now, I want you to write down what you want to accomplish this week, in regards to eating healthy and exercise. Below is a chart that you can use. After you write it down, I want you to place it on your refrigerator or bathroom mirror. This way you are reminded every morning of your weekly/monthly/year goals. “A goal unwritten is merely a wish”.

2.) Step 2- Start Early The mornings are the best time to knock out a work out. It not only energizes you for the day to come, it also sets the pace for the rest of the day. People who work out in the morning are more and likely to make healthier choices throughout the day. Try laying out your workout clothes somewhere visible the night before. Maybe lay them on a dresser with some tennis shoes. This encourages and reminds you of your goals each morning. It also leaves more time throughout your day for other priorities. We all live busy lives and waiting too long into the day, we will usually start to make excuses as to why we can’t workout. P.S. Not to mention, it will also improve your focus and memory at your job or class. Knock it out early!

3.) Step 3- Try a Group Exercise Class Exercising with other people is one of the best ways to stay committed to finishing a workout. The positive energy and vibes coming from everyone in the group will surely keep you from quitting a workout early. Everyone in the class is there for the same reason you are. They all want to be healthier and obtain their fitness goals. Even if you are nervous about working out with others, try to not let it deter you from going to a class. Most people are caring and want to support you in meeting your goals too. Group exercise classes have a group mentality and instructors strive to have everyone succeed. Try logging on to the site called Groupon. They offer not only many traveling and spa packages, they also have many fun exercise classes at a discounted rate. Go here and find an exercise class that interests you. I want you to sign up and finish all of the classes! Go out on a limb and try something new, that is the best way to grow into the amazing person that you are! Groupon- https://www.groupon.com

4.) Step 4- Reward Yourself for Accomplishing Goals Who doesn’t like to be rewarded for all of their hard work?! If we are being honest, every person wants to be recognized for all of the hours and dedication that they have been putting into achieving a goal. I want you to reward yourself after you accomplish a diet or fitness goal. When I was training for bodybuilding competitions, I rewarded myself with one cheat meal on Saturday nights. Normally I would go out with friends and make it fun! It not only kept me sane, but it kept me focused on my ultimate goal and it allowed me to appreciate the time with my friends more. It was a treat that I was overly grateful to have after a week of clean eating! Your reward does not have to be food related at all! It can be treating yourself to new workout clothes, going to a spa, taking a small weekend trip, indulging in a movie marathon, or a date night to your favorite restaurant! The sky's the limit! Remember your fitness goals though! If you choose food as a reward, try not to overindulge and keep it to one meal during the day. Treat yourself to the hard work you have been putting in, you deserve it!

5.) Get Inspired This one is totally up to you. Right now, I want you to ask yourself, “Why exactly do I want to get in shape”? Is it too look good in a bathing suit, to hike the Appalachian trail, or to have the energy to play with your kids or grandkids? What is it in life do you want to be in shape for? Once you have a solid idea, I want you to make sure that it is a positive thought. One that makes your truly happy and excited. Now, I want you to read about it, look at pictures of it, or write about it once everyday. If your goal is to become an active mom, read blogs about other mothers who have accomplished the feat. If the goal is to become a fitness model or do a bodybuilding competition, watch youtube videos. Give yourself the permission everyday to learn about the things you want to enter your life. Once you have a hard time sleeping at night because you are too excited, you know you are on the right track! Here are some fitness blog examples- 1.) Blogilates- http://www.blogilates.com/ 2.) ComeBackMomma- http://www.comebackmomma.com/ 3.) Toneitup- https://www.toneitup.com/