Let’s face it, we all know we need to exercise. Many of us know how to exercise. How many books and videos do you own? How many gym memberships have you had in your life? You may even be an expert on
perfect exercises for your body. But you’re not doing it! Why? Well problem isn’t lack of knowledge, it’s lack of motivation. Does this sound familiar?What can you do? Focus less on gaining more knowledge, and more on getting and staying motivated. As you become more consistent and start seeing results, you will be able to apply all that knowledge. Here are seven secrets to getting and staying motivated:
Secret One: Find Your “Why”
In order to be successful at any endeavor, we must have a good reason for doing it in first place. Exercise is no exception. What will get you up in morning on those cold, dark days when you just want to stay in bed? Many people say “because I want to lose weight” or “I want to be fit”. While these are good goals, they are not good enough reasons for long term success. You must dig deeper. What is important to you? What do you value in life? Answer these questions, then see how a regular exercise program can support your values.
Secret Two: Make a Commitment
Once you find your “why”, it’s time to make a commitment. Here is a definition of commitment you may not have heard: a commitment is ability to carry out a worthy decision, even when excitement of making that decision has passed. Read that definition again, and really understand it. How many times have you been excited to start an exercise program, only to become bored or distracted by other things? As soon as excitement passes, so do your exercise plans. Be sure you are ready to commit, and if you are not, then commit to not exercising. That way you can let go of guilt and commit when you are ready.
Secret Three: Set Daily, Measurable and Realistic Goals
If your only goal is to lose 40 pounds it will be a while before you feel successful. After all, it can take a while to see such results. Rather, set daily measurable, achievable goals that allow you to feel successful every day. Keep a weekly diary and set goals each day for what kind of exercise you will do, how long you will workout, how hard you will exercise, etc.
Secret Four: Keep Track of Your Progress
After you set your goals and write them down, you want to also chart your progress. Be sure to write down your daily achievements to compare to your goals. This will become extremely motivating as you see yourself meeting your goals. With consistent exercise, you will also see your workouts becoming easier and your ability to work harder and longer. This often happens faster than visible results on your body, such as weight loss or definition. Many people become frustrated and quit exercise right before big changes are about to happen, because they don’t see results on their bodies. Seeing measurable progress on paper will keep you motivated while you work towards bigger goals you have set for yourself.
