Sometimes it's hard to get motivated to eat right, start exercising again, or get back on track with your goals whenever you've had a change in your schedule from things going on in your life (i.e. - COVID-19, getting sick, new baby, family illness, job change, etc). But it's important to find a way to break out of that slump, and here are some things Iâve learned that have helped...
1. Set ONE Goal.
Often we get overwhelmed because we have too much going on. Start by picking just one simple goal and work to achieve it, whether it's losing 5lbs, drinking 8 glasses of water every day or just taking the stairs at the office instead of the elevator.
2. Post Your Goal Everywhere.
Print out your goal in LARGE text and tape it on your bathroom mirror and refrigerator. Write it out on a brightly colored sticky note and set it on your desk at home and work. Change your background image on your personal laptop to reflect your goal. You want to have BIG reminders about your goal throughout the day to help you stay focused.
3. Commit Publicly.
Sometimes we just need a little accountability from others. I recently came across a post on a local Facebook group of a gal who asked for others to join her in doing a 1-minute plank challenge next month. She was new to planking but wanted that to be her goal and invited others to join her in the challenge and keep her accountable. This is just one great example of how others can spur you on towards your goal, so don't be afraid to ask for it! Also, tell others at your Boot Camp class and we will be sure to keep you accountable and help you along the way! đ
4. Find Inspiration.
Try to find little reminders that will encourage you to stay motivated, even when you're having a rough day. Using a fun, motivational coffee mug might inspire you in the morning, or signing up for a motivational email newsletter may encourage you in the afternoon. Or reading a fitness book before bed each night and highlighting your favorite parts may help inspire or motivate you. I love to read the Bible for inspiration! đđ»
5. Don't Give Up.
Persistence is key. Even if you arenât feeling any motivation today, or this week, donât give up as that motivation will likely come back. Think of your goal as a long journey, and your slump is just a little bump in the road. You canât give up with every little bump. Stay with it for the long term, ride out the bumps, and youâll get there. đȘđ»
6. Replace Negative Thoughts with Positive Ones.
Start monitoring your thoughts and squashing the negative ones as soon as they pop up. Spend a few days becoming aware of every negative thought that goes through your head and after a few days, try replacing those negative thoughts with a corresponding positive thought.
For instance, replace, "This is too hard!" with:
God has given me the strength and I CAN DO THIS!
Or, replace "I'm never going to look like ____" with:
I am beautiful and awesome JUST THE WAY I AM!
It really works. đ