Feed Your Motivation
We are seven weeks into the challenge. While the tasks in this challenge haven’t been complicated, you may still find them difficult because they require motivation, self-discipline, grit and consistency.
Over the past few weeks, have you had moments when you didn’t feel like working out or eating healthy? Perhaps there were times when you were able to overcome those feelings and carry out the task you committed to, or maybe you decided to skip it. Regardless of your past choices, focus on feeding your motivation this week, which in turn will feed your success. Reading motivational quotes, expressing gratitude and reflecting on your progress can remind you to keep pushing on!
This week, follow the below tips to lift yourself up and stay motivated.
Practice Positive Self-talk
Turn negative thoughts into positive thoughts. By increasing your confidence through self-talk, you’ll increase the likelihood of accomplishing your goals. For example, instead of saying “I failed, I always fail, and I can never accomplish anything,” say “I’m proud of having the courage to try, and I will keep trying until I accomplish my goal!”
Work Toward Small Victories That Lead to Big Successes
If you constantly make promises to yourself that you do not keep, you will form a habit of not accomplishing your goals. Create a habit of success by setting small, attainable goals. When you achieve a goal, set a new one that builds on it. As you continue to build on each small goal, you’ll learn how to make a commitment to yourself — and actually follow through. As your goals increase in difficulty, you’ll find a way through obstacles in front of you instead of throwing in the towel.
Keep Your Goal Where You Can See It
When you set a goal, write it down and put it somewhere you’ll see it every day. It will serve as a reminder of what you’re working to achieve. As time progresses, remember the motivation and desire you had when you wrote it down. Envision how you will feel when you accomplish the goal. Use that motivation to keep going.
Use the Five-second Rule
When your motivation is low, take five seconds of conscious effort to change your thoughts. Count down from five, and take action when you get to one. When your alarm clock sounds and you don’t have the motivation to get out of bed, start your countdown. When you hit one, launch out of bed to get yourself to the gym. Why does this work? Because the countdown awakens your prefrontal cortex — the center for cognitive behavior, personality and decision-making.
Surround Yourself With Positive People
The people you surround yourself with can have a big impact on your mindset. Surround yourself with those who are uplifting and encouraging and have positive habits. You’ll notice these traits rubbing off on you.
Create a Positive Environment
Creating a positive environment can lead a positive life. Surround yourself with positive words, like quotes or song lyrics. Reading or watching inspiring movies or videos can also help produce a positive mindset. What you feed your mind ultimately impacts your mindset, so choose things that lift you up!
Always Move Forward
In the moments that are the hardest, keep these words echoing in your mind: non semper ad medium, Latin for “always forward, never back.”
There isn’t one solution for a lack of motivation; each of us is motivated differently. Figure out what works for you, and live a life in which you can accomplish all your goals!
Share your favorite quotes, movie scenes and songs that feed your motivation!
About the author
Ms. Lauren Scotti is Vice President, Director of Slainte Fitness, and Personal Development Team Leader at USLI, leading the Slainte team and organizing the company’s recreational sports teams and wellness initiatives. Ms. Scotti enjoys staying active by running, teaching HIIT classes and strength training. Ms. Scotti also enjoys coaching others about creating positive changes and incorporating healthier habits into their lives.