We all know how important it is to exercise and lose weight, but it can be hard to make that first step into the process. When we really want something badly, finding a way to make progress or a deadline of some sort creates enough momentum that makes the necessary steps easier.
However, if you’re having trouble getting motivated or find yourself avoiding going on those exercises or doing that diet, maybe adjusting your mindset can help make things easier. You might want to consider the following strategies if you’re struggling with motivation.
Do you know about why is it often easier to start a fitness program?
1. Set a hard target that keeps you accountable .
Instead of making the goal just to go on your daily walk, try setting a specific deadline for this exercise program or diet. For example, if you’re trying to lose weight, it could be as simple as starting your diet on Monday after the weekend.
Even more specific is setting a time limit for completing a workout routine. This might include writing down what you plan to do each day and when you’ll do it for six weeks or more.
2. Focus on what you’re gaining, not what you’re losing.
It’s true that we tend to lose weight by eating less and moving more. However, it might be easier to start things off if you focus on the wonderful benefits of getting into shape instead of the sacrifices it might take.
For instance, think about how good it will feel to fit into smaller clothing sizes and how much more energy you’ll have when exercising regularly. Maybe a great goal is to work up to being able to run five miles without stopping or lifting weights for 30 minutes without stopping.
3. Don’t tweak your goal if possible.
Many people that start a workout or diet program end up tweaking their goals or failing because of the perception that they’re not making adequate progress. If you have an overall goal like trying to get on a regular walking routine and you’re stuck on yourself for not losing weight like you hoped, think about how to adjust your mindset. Discuss with friends and family what your new goals are and look at any adjustments as positive changes instead of negative setbacks.
For example, reducing the number of calories by just 100 each day could lead to losing up to 10 pounds. This might not be your main goal, but if you can lose some weight or feel healthier, it could help you continue on with the process instead of quitting. Instead of expecting to lose weight, aim to get on a healthy eating plan and set more realistic goals for exercise.
4. Don’t stop what is working .
If you’ve gotten into a regular workout routine and feel great about how things are going so far, don’t let a minor setback derail your efforts. For example, maybe you had an off day or weren’t able to stick with the plan exactly as expected. If you wake up the next day and still have a positive attitude, you’re probably going to have another good day.
On the other hand, if you let one bad day lead to seven or eight more bad days because of making extreme changes to your routine or eating habits, it can be harder to get back on track. Instead of adjusting your exercise program drastically, add in some more challenging exercises instead of jumping into an extreme diet plan.
If a few days slip by where you don’t feel motivated, they’ll usually pass by quickly as long as you don’t give up entirely and motivate yourself again. Getting active is one of the best things that anyone can do for their mind and body.
5. Practice visualization.
It’s true that many people find it much easier to simply start exercising or changing their eating habits because they really want to succeed. If you find yourself taking this approach, consider first starting with simple activities like doing a few reps of push-ups before having to switch responsibilities or getting ready for bed.
Next, start doing simple things like walking up flights of stairs instead of waiting for the elevator if you’re going to work. As long as you keep these small steps moving forward, the process will become more natural and easier to continue on.
All of these suggestions and tips are meant to help people deal with the struggles that come along with trying to get healthy in any way possible. If you continue to have trouble, try sitting down and doing some brainstorming for different ways of reaching your goals. Feeling good about yourself is all about getting motivated and making a change.
