Mustering Up The Motivation?!?

One of the questions I get asked a lot is, "How do I keep myself motivated?” the answer isn't always the same for each individual. I suggest a few things by asking a few questions and based on a person's response, I can usually offer something to get them started. Most people who have ignored their bodies for a long period of time have plenty of reasons to start motivating themselves such as: getting rid of excess weight, relieving stress, renewing depleted energy levels, and actually getting a better night's sleep. Those are great motivation starters and usually do keep someone going for a few weeks or months. What can you do when boredom sets in? I can offer suggestions for that as well:

Change up the routine every few weeks: Not only is it good for relieving boredom, but also its great for your body to get something new and different. Our bodies tend to get used to whatever we give it and this is also the culprit usually for plateauing.

Find a different reason for motivation: Focusing on one thing for a long period of time may become a bit tiring and perhaps that thing you are aiming for isn’t coming as quickly as you like. This is the time to re-shift, refocus, and reevaluate. You may ask yourself, "What has improved?", "What changes have I seen?", "What has my family, loved ones, and friends noticed or complimented me on?" Those are all great things that you can internalize as motivation. It’s about finding a new muse.

Getting a personal trainer or a workout partner: Accountability: it’s a good thing. A personal trainer can give you the proper tools and ideas to develop a great workout plan that is specific to you. Personal training may not be an option for some but finding a person who needs the same thing as you may be ideal. A workout partner can keep you accountable and may help you develop the competitive drive you need to attain your goals.

Last thing to remember is that patience is crucial. Reversing bad habits and losing excess weight does not occur overnight, remember you did not develop these problems overnight either. Things can always be changed and mind over matter truly does work.