Have you wondered how some people are able to maintain amazing bodies while you struggle with your weight? They make it seem easy to achieve and maintain results. What do they know that you don’t? When you boil it down, the answer is simple: The missing link between you and your ideal body is good old motivation. A healthy dose of motivation coupled with determination will get you almost anything in life. So, how do you know if you’re motivated?
- Motivation will tell you to get out of bed for an early workout.
- Motivation will nag you to put down the doughnut.
- Motivation makes passing on fries a reflex.
- Motivation makes a sweat-drenched workout exciting.
- Motivation constantly reminds you why you do what you do.
If your motivation levels are lacking, read the following four steps to turn on your motivation.
Step 1: Pinpoint your motivatorMotivation stems from having a goal. What is your goal? Why do you want to get into shape? Once you uncover your personal motivator, you’ll find motivation flows quickly your way.Take a minute to uncover the reason you want to lose the weight. Don’t say something vague like you want to be thinner or look more attractive. Dig deeper. There is a specific motivator in your life; you simply need to uncover it.Here are possible motivators.
- I want to have more energy to keep up with the kids.
- I want to improve my health through weight loss to extend and improve my life.
- I want to lose 15 pounds before my vacation.
- I want to restore my confidence to wear sleeveless shirts.
- I want to regain my figure to impress and attract my significant other.
Step 2: Make it officialWhen you write something down, it suddenly feels official, doesn’t it? Write down your motivator for getting into shape, and post it where you will see it often – next to your alarm clock, on the bathroom mirror or in your car.Each time you see your written motivator take a moment to visualize yourself accomplishing your goal. Try to make the scene as clear in your mind as possible. This is a powerful tool for maintaining your focus and direction.
Step 3: Be practicalIt’s game plan time. You know what you want, and now you need to map out exactly how you’ll achieve it. It is important to be practical in your planning, rather than throwing out ideas you know you won’t stick with.With any weight loss goal it is important to 1) maintain a healthy low-calorie diet, and 2) participate in a consistent and challenging exercise program.Plan a routine that will fit into your schedule, and you’ll be more likely to stick with it. Also, choose an exercise program that you enjoy. Don’t force yourself to jog every day if you hate jogging.
Step 4: Call for backupEnlist the support of friends, family and co-workers. Tell them about your goal to lose weight and get fit; you’ll be surprised how supportive most people will be. By being open about your goals, you’ll likely be an encouragement to others to make healthy changes in their own lives.
David Corder NSCA-CPTwww.perfectfitwc.comRECIPE OF THE MONTHEasy Homemade Lentil SoupFew things are as comforting on a brisk autumn day than a bowl of hot lentil soup. This recipe is surprisingly simple with five minutes of preparation and a cook time of 30 minutes. Serve for lunch or dinner with a piece of hearty whole grain bread and a salad. Servings: 12Here’s what you need …7 cups water2 1/2 cup dried red lentils1 large onion, minced1 teaspoon turmericLarge pinch of cayenne pepper4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice1 teaspoon ground cuminSalt and pepperCombine water, lentils, onion, turmeric and cayenne pepper in a large soup pot, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, partially cover and simmer until lentils have disintegrated, about 30 minutes. Stir in lemon juice, cumin, salt and pepper to taste.Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 148 calories, .8g fat, 25g carbohydrate, 6g fiber and 11g protein
