Find the Root of Your Motivation and Stick It

Photo by AnyaLogic on Flickr

Figure out the root of your motivation to be fit. Write it down. And stick it by posting it somewhere that you will see it often -- like on the fridge.

Getting to the root of what motivates you to be fit is key. Many people aren't real with themselves as to the reason why they want to get in shape. I often hear people say, "I want to be healthier" or "I want to fit back into my clothes." These are great reasons, but why? Why? Why? Why?

Why do you want to be healthier? Why do you want to fit back into your clothes?

Once you get to the bottom of these questions, you'll find your true motivation. This can be difficult because oftentimes, the root may be a little vain or selfish -- and that's perfectly OK.

For instance, maybe your real reason to fit back into your clothes is because you'll look hotter. But nobody ever says, "I want to workout because I want to be hot." Instead, what is more likely to be said is "I want to fit back into my clothes because I can't afford to go out and buy all new stuff."

Maybe you're working out to be healthier. But why? What does that mean, "to be healthier?" Well, if that's the reason, you probably want to reduce your cholesterol and you want to reduce your risk for heart attack or stroke. That's great. But why?

Well, you'll live longer for one. And you'll also end up losing weight, looking better and be able to play better with your kids or grandchildren, or the kids you may have someday. These reasons can kind of feel a little selfish at the root, right? This is why most people who say they "want to be healthier," stop right there and don't assess the real reason why they want to be healthier because they might feel a little selfish.

Be selfish. Be vain. There's nothing wrong with whatever your motives are to become fit.

When we take time for ourselves, to make ourselves happy -- we feel more confident and it impacts our interactions with those around us for the better. Everyone benefits.

Take time to recognize what is really driving you to be fit -- dig deep, get to the root. Once you figure it out, own it. Play it in your head over and over. Write it down and stick it somewhere you can remind yourself of this often.

When you find yourself debating whether or not to have that ice cream you know you shouldn't have, refer back to your true driving force to be fit and let it guide you to stay on track.