How to Get Your Fitness Resolution Back on Track with 8 Steps to Keep You Motivated by Stephen Holt
How is your New Year's fitness resolution going? Have you run out of steam?
Maybe
problem was not doing right exercise at start of your program.
No, not physical exercise. Mental exercise.
The key to "motivation" is realizing what your "motives" truly are.
Answering these thought-provoking questions *in writing* will help you clarify your vision and enhance your commitment by helping you to focus on your true motives.
You'll also have a permanent record of your values and priorities that you can periodically use as a reminder that will rekindle your motivation.
Step 1. Simple. Start with writing what you want in general. For example: "I want to lose weight." Write as many goals as you want.
Step 2. Now it's time for details. For each of your three most important general goals, write down *exactly* what you want.
You know SMART acronym by now: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timed.
Keep in mind that a safe rate of *fat* loss is 1-2 pounds a week. With my clients, we pick a date first, then work backwards using a pace of one pound per week.
It also helps to write each goal in present tense so that it becomes an effective affirmation.
An example would be: "As of [date seven weeks from now] I weigh [seven pounds less than today]."
However, since your rate of weight loss is non-linear and not entirely in your control, "activity goals" - such as working out three times a week - are less frustrating.
Step 3. Write down WHY you want it.
This is what motivation truly is. You don't really want to lose seven pounds just to be seven pounds lighter.
You want to lose weight because you believe that being lighter will make some positive change in your life.
What is it that you *really* want? It's never weight itself.
Maybe you feel that losing weight will make you more attractive, more popular, more lovable, live longer, have less pain, or make someone envious.
