To all those shouting "let's go" and "you an do this" you are probably rolling your eyes or throwing something at them. Some have it within them. Some don't. Motivation does not come natural to everyone. I'm totally with you!
Seriously, I'm not always internally motivated. I have to choose it more often than not. But there are a few "hacks" I use to "trick" myself into being motivated. If you are look me, put a few of these in place and you will find your self moving closer to where you really want to be.
Listen in or read the tips below!
Let's get REAL honest!
1.) You aren’t going to wake up and “feel like it”, you have to do it anyway!
Most people don't wake up cheery and ready to jump out of bed. BUT, if you can get past that feeling of not wanting to do it, you start creating a new response, a new habit.
We all have silly things to help us overcome those excuses. I will WEAR my workout clothes to bed. I set my Alexa echo dot alarm to a fanfare style get up and a motivating quote to get me going. Put a note on your mirror that gives you the sense of accomplishment for your hard work when you are done.
If all else fails, count it down. Remember being a kid and counting down until you jumped off the high dive? Just start counting backwards to yourself: 5-4-3-2-1.
The counting will focus you on the goal or commitment and distract you from the worries, thoughts, and excuses in your mind. As soon as you reach “1” – push yourself to move.
2.) What is your goal in considering this task?
Not many just LOVE working out. Many people have tasks they don't want to complete and may never because they can't attach it to the reason. Some think working out is tied to getting in shape or losing weight, That's the kind of goal that gets people nowhere because it's undefined and unsupported.
You have to find your why in order to motivate yourself each day. Is it so you aren’t winded when you are playing with your kids? You want to feel sexier when you are with your significant other? Looking to move your body to change your mind? Whatever it is, you are going to need to focus on that to get yourself moving each day. Remember it and own it!
3.) Tap into your gratitude.
You can't be grateful and angry at the same time. When I'm tired, i'm angry. When I'm making excuses, i'm avoiding what I know. Switch your mind from excuse-mode to gratefulness. List out why you are grateful for the ability to move, to become healthier for your kids, or for the positive changes you a making that will effect your family.
Whatever the excuse, or inability to do something, flip the switch and focus on what you DO have, and CAN do and be grateful for those things.
4.) Make a plan, schedule it out.
If you don’t have a plan, you’ll never get it done. Plan when you’ll get up or get in your workout, and even plan what you are going to do so you don't sit there thinking about it. Does it take more work at the front end? Yes. But it also simplifies it and eliminates a ton of excuses. You don't even need a gym! Here's the 5 pieces of equipment I have at home.
Time-blocking is your friend but above all find a time that will help you be the most consistent. Kill the excuses with plans! And if you need a little help, join my January Jumpstart Group for a little extra help!
5.) Dang It, Give Yourself Some Grace!
Stop beating yourself for the rep you didn't finish, or the workout you missed. Get over it and get back on board. Do what you can with what you have. Start from where you are and don't compare! Stay in your lane because what YOU are doing is what matters. Your accomplishments are yours. Celebrate them big and small. Just keep taking steps forward towards YOUR goals. This is no one else's journey but yours.
MY CHALLENGE TO YOU, GIVE IT 30 MINUTES A DAY FOR 30 DAYS
Post it on social and tag #JanuaryJumpstart so I can cheer you on!