Despite our best efforts, we all have days we just don’t feel like going to the gym, taking a walk or doing a dance routine to get into or stay in good shape. Enjoy these 10 tips to keep you motivated and inspired!
1. Set Goals – Many people overlook this important step. Successful people don’t. Make sure your goals can be measured; set a definite date to achieve definite results. Each time you reach a goal, it kicks your motivation up a notch. Start with short-term goals that will lead you to your long-term desired results.
2. Make your workout fun to do – If you don’t enjoy ‘working out’ with weights, try walking; if walking bores you to tears; try biking or dancing or an aerobics class. You’re much more likely to stick with an exercise program doing something you like to do.
3. Partner up – Working out with a buddy is not only more fun, but you’re less likely to blow off your workout if you know someone is waiting for you to join them. It’s also good to have someone to share with when you’ve reached a goal or become discouraged.
4. Use the power of visualization – If you don’t have a photo editor, chances are you know someone who does. Give them a picture of yourself and have them touch it up so you can see what you’ll like when you reach your goals. Keep this picture somewhere you’ll see it every day. (Like the fridge!)
5. Invest in yourself – One of the best decisions you can make is to hire a personal trainer. You’d be surprised how motivated you’ll become when not only is someone waiting for you to show up, but you’re paying them whether you show up or not!
6. Try on clothes – We’ve all got a favorite article of clothing that ‘used to fit’. Keep that out and try it on a couple of times a week to keep you motivated to continue your workout routine.
7. Start a journal – Jot down a few notes describing how your feel after each workout, especially those days you feel REALLY good. These will serve to greatly inspire you on those days your motivation may be lagging.
8. Find a forum – Joining a discussion group or participating in a forum will do wonders for keeping your motivation high. You’ll find people who struggle with the same obstacles as you as well as those who have found ways to overcome them. Sharing in the success of others inspires you to create your own success story.
9. Tell your friends and family – Once you’ve announced your fitness plan, there’s an accountability factor that helps you get moving when you may not feel like it. Because they care about you, they’re bound to ask you how your workouts are going. What will you tell them?
10. Reward yourself – Most of us have no problem punishing ourselves when we having performed as well as we should. We mentally berate ourselves that we ‘should have done better’ or ‘should have gone to the gym today’. But for some reason, we don’t reward ourselves in the same way for a job well done. Go to a movie, buy something for yourself you’ve been wanting, take time off to play a favorite game or sport or listen to music you enjoy. As long as it isn’t edible…treat yourself from time to time for reaching your goals.
