Staying motivated can be a daunting task. Our intentions and our plans are usually good, but sometimes, our heart or our body just isn’t on board. Today, we’re talking about the tips and tricks we use to keep ourselves going, even when we don’t want to!
Set Up A Streak
Even on the days when the only thing I want to do is couch rot, if I have a daily goal to hit, I’m going to do what I can hit it. It’s important that the streak goal isn’t too onerous: I participate in the “Running With The Cool Kids” streak, which entails running, jogging, or walking one dedicated mile per day. Even if I am not able to do a fitness walk, there’s a good chance that I can lay down a straight mile walking the dogs, hiking, or even doing laps in an airport or theme park.
Remind Myself That Starting Over Is Hard
One of the biggest things I tell myself to get out the door is that it’s hard coming back from a break. By keeping up the habit and getting out for a walk, run, or workout every day (or on a regular schedule), my body knows what i expect and it’s easier to keep going.
Sign Up For A Race
If I feel my motivation slipping, signing up for a race usually gets me back on track. After all, once I’ve paid, I do everything in my power not to miss out (injury or illness aside), and if I’m going to be out there, then I might as well be as prepared as possible.
Treat Myself To New Gear
I admit, I am partial to the concept of treating myself. Sometimes it’s new shoes. Other times, it’s a cute new running outfit. I’m not saying a pair of cow-print sunglasses will solve all my motivation problems, but it surely does help.
Phone A Friend
When all else fails, call for backup. Ask a friend to help you stay on track! Accountability is always in style and having a buddy can make it easier to keep going!
How do you manage staying motivated when you just don’t feel like it?
Link Up With Tuesday Topics
This year, I am joining up with Zenaida, of The Running Teacher for Tuesday Topics! Please join us every week for a new topic!
I agree except for the streak.
Races on my plate make me get out the door and of course if someone is waiting.
Streaks are not for everyone, but it helps me!
I will never be the one to cancel on someone else (unless I’m in terrible shape), so it really helps to have someone waiting on me.
I love the idea of setting up a streak. I also like your thought that starting over is hard. While getting out there may be hard, it isn’t as hard as starting over!
That kind of thinking really helps me: I will absolutely feel so much worse not doing something than I do getting out there.
I just remind myself how bad I’ll feel if I don’t move my body. I’ve been doing this for so long that it feels like breathing or eating to me.
Same. It’s very much a habit at this point, but that’s ok.
My motivation is usually on-point because I don’t sit idle much. Getting outside daily is key for me, and even crappy weather can’t stop a quick 15-minute walk outdoors 🙂
Same. I can pretty much always get outside, at least for a mile.
Friends for the win! They keep you accountable and it’s more fun.
Great tips all round, Jenn!
They are the best!
I also like to buy new gear. I just bought some new shoes and tops. I don’t need them right now but new gear makes me happy too.