I have gotten this question countless times from friends, clients, and acquaintances. The problem with motivation is that it is a fickle bitch. Sometimes it’s there, and sometimes it’s out to lunch.
When it comes to exercise, you can’t rely on motivation alone because it ebbs and flows daily, even hour to hour. Instead, stay consistent because you can control when you show up. Schedule the workout, book the class and make it non-negotiable.
The hard truth is that you only reach your goals by showing up daily, even when you might not be “motivated” to do it. There are a few ways that I have found over the years to make consistency more attainable:
- Make it manageable. I say this over and over, but it is foundational. For exercise to work for you, you have to actually do it, and you are more likely to follow through when it’s manageable. This means setting yourself up for success. If 60-minute workouts five days a week is unlikely, try scheduling 30-minute workouts three times a week. It seems simple, but the feeling you get from accomplishing something, even if it seems small, is hard to beat and will go a long way towards staying consistent.
- Find something you enjoy. Another one that seems simple but is super important. You shouldn’t dread your workout. If this sounds like you, branch out and try something new. I have heard from so many people that they are going out for a run or doing a HIIT class, and in the same sentence, they tell me how much they dread it. Ok, so why are you doing it, “because I know it’s a good workout.” What if you found something you actually enjoyed and looked forward to doing, and it was a great workout?! Imagine how that would change your perspective and, dare I say, change your results.
- Book it and pay for it! Pay someone else to train you if you have the funds and means. I’m a trainer, and I do it. Trust me; it makes such a difference. For one, I know someone is waiting for me, and I am giving them my hard-earned money, both of which help me stay consistent. Second, I don’t have to think as much; I follow along with the class or listen to my instructor. Lastly, when I put something on my calendar, I make the time vs. just expecting that when I get done with work, school, etc., the time will be there waiting for me to workout.
So remember, it’s not about motivation; it all comes down to consistency because that, my friends, is when the change happens!
Need help with your consistency? Want to make your workouts more manageable? Let’s chat!
