I often get asked how I get and STAY motivated. Let me tell you, some days are way harder than others. And some days I wake up invincible! The overall key is consistency, but here are five ways you can find your motivation and keep it.
- Get a buddy. Or a group of buddies! There is nothing more motivating to me than seeing others sweat and hearing about their intense workouts. It makes me, dare I say jealous?! I want to feel that way! I have a Let’s Get Motivated! Facebook page dedicated to sharing motivation. We post our ups, our downs, and keep each other going when we need it the most. I am also surrounded by a great group of women at my part-time job that share this passion with me. We talk about our workouts, our nutrition, our hard times or our successful times! We cheer each other on. Not to mention my great friends who walk and talk with me when I need it the most. Who do you have around you that can get you going? Feel free to message me and I’ll add you to our Facebook page… all are welcome.
- Get on Pinterest. But don’t spend your entire day on it. And keep on scrolling past all those yummy desserts you see please… Just browse through different motivational quotes, pin some go-to workouts, and find some healthy meals to cook. When I need a little pick me up or a quick morning workout I always go to Pinterest. My Fitness board has a bunch of different workouts, positive quotes, and some cute gym outfit ideas, too. Not sure where to start? Search for ‘fitness motivation’ and you’re on your way!
- Get dressed and lace up those shoes. It’s a fact that you’ll be more likely to get up and go if you’re ready for it. I usually workout in the morning so I have my outfit and shoes picked out and waiting for me when I wake up. If I have to think too much in the morning it might not happen. Once I’m dressed it helps my brain focus on the task that’s ahead. If you’re working out later in the day, set a time when you’re going to get dressed and a time when you’re out the door. Otherwise, you may end up getting too cozy on the couch.
- Get a routine. Have your plan ready, clothes and shoes ready, and time out your day. If you can, work out at the same time every day so it becomes a habit. As mentioned before, if you workout later in the day be sure to set a time for workout gear and a time to leave the house so you don’t end up running too late. Routine becomes habit, which in this case is a great thing.
- Get a mantra. This may sound silly, but it works for me. Whenever I feel like I don’t have it in me (unless I’m sick or really need a day to rest) I close my eyes, take some deep breaths, and repeat the following to myself: “I am strong. I am alive. I have no excuses. I will conquer this workout.” I know, I know, cheesy peesy. But it makes me feel awake, badass, and ready to hit it!
These are ways I find motivation in my day to day. There are definitely other things that motivate me and keep me on track such as my kids, my husband, my clients, and overall just feeling good. Always remember you will have good days and bad… no one is immune to a bad day. But if you remain consistent and have a plan, you’ll know a good day is on the way.
What works for you? Feel free to comment and share what motivates you, or if you’ve used one of these tips above we’d love to hear about it!
All the best,
Katie Kottmann
ISSA Elite Fitness Trainer, Nutritionist, Registered Nurse
http://www.GoalFitnessandNutrition.com
kottmannk@goalfitnessandnutrition.com