Training Tip: Motivation
Clients often ask me about motivation, and it frequently begins with statements such as, “I’m losing motivation” or, “I’m trying to get motivated.” What they don’t realize, is that these misguided expressions are being directed toward the wrong person; they only need to be directed at yourself.
Motivation needs to come from within, not external sources, and there are many reasons behind that.
OUTSIDE SOURCES ARE VARIABLE
Working toward an upcoming event, wanting to impress people or following a program can certainly feed your fire, but these shouldn’t be the main sources of motivation, because they don’t stick with you forever. The only thing that is constant is you.
MOTIVATION IS NEEDED MOST WHEN YOU’RE ALONE
When alone, you are your most vulnerable. Think about the days when you catch a whiff of food you’re trying not to eat, or the early mornings when you decide to ignore your alarm clock. Only you are there to prevent yourself from getting distracted from your goals.
GOALS NEED TO ALIGN WITH ABILITY
When setting goals, know what you’re willing to work for, and also know what you’re capable of working for. A single parent may not have time to train to win a triathlon, but can achieve an all-time low body fat level or faster mile time. Of course you should still work toward goals even if they’ll be difficult to achieve, but it’s important to keep them in a realistic perspective.
SO, WHAT ARE GOOD SOURCES OF MOTIVATION?
Every person must discover this for themselves, but here are some ideas:
Be the best you can be at this point in your life
Achieve something you haven’t before, improve on an achievement, or repeat an achievement you’ve done in the past
Prove to yourself you have what it takes to succeed
Take satisfaction in being a rare individual who truly does complete their goals
These examples are all internal motivation sources that don’t require the stimulation of external, variable factors. External elements should still be used as resources for goal setting, but your internal fire needs to be at the center. Use those tools to guide you and you are guaranteed success.
Keep making every day count; effort in, equals results out!
