Exercising is hard work, and finding the time to exercise can be equally challenging. Rest assured, you’re not alone in lacking motivation to exercise! So, how can we make this easier on ourselves?
Here’s a trick that helps with this feeling on the worst days: If you really don’t want to work out, take it one step at a time. Start by changing into your workout clothes. Then, convince yourself to put on your workout shoes. Grab your headphones and find a great playlist.
By the time you’ve done all this, you’ve gotten yourself ready to work out, and you’re standing at the theoretical starting line. Now, reconsider your decision not to exercise. Remind yourself that any amount of activity is better than nothing, so even if you can’t convince yourself to get to the gym, a short walk around your block is still a win!
Then, get started and see how it impacts your mindset. You may appreciate taking a break from a hard day to accomplish something for yourself and decide that you DO have more to give than you thought. Even if you end up hating your workout, you can still feel proud that you chose to incorporate something healthy into your day.
That said, sustainable results are an outcome of consistency, so don’t shy away from leaning into the challenge! Find activities you enjoy and can keep coming back to. Focusing on progress rather than perfection can help you show up and improve your health over time.
You can also try these tricks if you’re struggling with motivation:
- Couple an errand, task, or assignment with exercise. For example, if it’s accessible, consider walking to your destination to get your steps in while accomplishing your task.
- Get creative and make it fun. Dancing and sports are great examples of activities we associate with fun rather than work.
- Plan a reward for yourself after exercise or postpone a fun task until you’ve accomplished your workout. The anticipation will make it easier to get through it.
- Stick to your plan. If you already know your day will be busy and make it challenging to work out, block out that time in your calendar and give yourself a backup plan in case your schedule gets chaotic.
- Get some support. A workout buddy can help boost accountability and make exercising more enjoyable.
- Remind yourself of your goals. You’ll likely feel accomplished and proud after a workout rather than regretful.
- Finally, don’t let yesterday’s bad day ruin today. Give yourself compassion, and keep it moving!
