Let Motivation Come to You

By Donna Stark

I guess you could say I used to be a casual exerciser. When I started my fitness journey, I would go to the gym a couple of times a week, but if I missed a day or two, I didn't really stress about it. I don't know about you, but it has always been hard for me to find motivation when I start something new. Many people will say that you can't force motivation, and to some extent, I agree. But I do also think that if you actively engage in an action, motivation can sneak up on you when you least expect it, kind of like love or happiness, and that's exactly what happened to me with exercise.

Let Motivation Come to You

Most of us have heard about that 21-day build-a-habit plan, haven't we? Basically, it states that if you do something for 21 days in a row, it will become second nature. Well, maybe so, and then again, maybe not. But if you do something for 21 days and continue to do it after that time has ended, the likelihood of finding some motivation, or of motivation finding you, will increase, don't you think? So, let's get started! Here are some suggestions that will at least get you moving on that fitness path until motivation comes into the picture and takes over.

• Visualize - There has to be some power in the art of visualization because I know so many successful people that create vision boards every year. I guess it's true ... seeing is believing. So grab a pen, write down your fitness goals, and post the list where you will see it every day.
• Reward yourself - Life is hard. We all get that, which is why it is nice to reward yourself for your hard work. Treat yourself to a night out, a relaxing massage, or better yet, new workout clothes that will encourage you to exercise even more!
• Meal prep - Nothing kicks motivation to the curb faster than when the opposite of what you want to happen, happens, and eating poorly will do exactly that. So take some extra time during the week to prep some healthy meals, because once you start feeling healthier, the door will be opened for motivation to step in.
• Join a group challenge - Does a good competition turn you on? If so, look for a group fitness challenge at one of your local gyms. In addition to competing against others, it's a great way to get fit, make new friends, and improve your health in one shot!

Stop Waiting!

Don't sit around waiting for that lightning strike of motivation to hit you, just get up and go! Because even if you don't have the desire to start, it's the action that counts. Sooner than later, motivation may come into your life, and when that happens, nothing will be able to hold you back!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Atlanta, Ga.