We all have those days where we think of every excuse in the book to skip out on our workout. The truth is, staying motivated is challenging. Motivation comes and goes, but discipline is what will keep you on track to reaching your goals. If you feel like your motivation is declining, try one (or all) of these tricks that I use to stay disciplined!
START THE DAY OFF RIGHT
One of the best ways to stay on track is to get started first thing in the morning! This way you get it over with and you have your entire day ahead of you when it’s over. I’ve personally noticed that on days I feel sluggish, I push my workout back later and later and I find myself making more excuses as to why I shouldn’t/can’t workout. So, get it done in the AM so you have no excuses to make! Workout, shower and kick your day off on a high note.
KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE PRIZE
When I’m feeling unmotivated, the first thing I try to think about is the version of myself I want to be. I know I’m not getting there by laying around, so I ask myself: “How can I inch closer to my end goal?”
Think about where you want to be mentally and physically in 1 month, 6 months, or even a year. Then think about the steps you know you need to take in order to reach that goal and be that person! The first step starts with action, so make moves to get where you want to be!
MAKE IT MANDATORY
I was a college athlete for 4 years. During this time, we had scheduled team workouts and they were non-negotiable. Since workouts were mandatory, I always showed up because I knew I had to, no matter what. Even though your workouts aren’t technically mandatory, take the initiative and be your own coach! Get a planner, write down the days and times of your planned workouts, act as if they are mandatory, and show up for yourself! If you need a little extra push, have a friend join you for your scheduled workouts so you’re even less likely to skip out.