Motivation: The Crucial Ingredient In Your Weight Loss Success

What’s your motivation? Do you want to get ripped before summer? Do you want to exercise more to lower your blood pressure? Whatever it is, motivation is a critical ingredient in the recipe for success. In between deciding we are going to get into shape and the actual physical part of dragging ourselves to the gym or lacing up our shoes to go for a jog, there is that moment in between where we find the drive to do so. This is a topic I feel is under addressed and needs to be given more consideration. The motivation for most may not be their own, it may be a loved one concerned about their health or it could a group of people. Sometimes we find the motivation from a life changing experience or it could be from the burning desire for a “Second chance” after the onset of an illness. It could be strictly physical - we just want to look trim or emotional - exercising helps to relieve stress. Lots of times we hear people say that you should do it for yourself which I am a big believer in, but if you are like some people I know sometimes motivation from others could do the trick. You know these type of people, they know they need to lose weight, but realistically will not do a thing about it and are fine with that. But let others talk to them and they will change their ways. Take my Father for example he enjoyed drinking alcohol even though he knows its bad for him. He had no reason or motivation to cut down until a Doctor spoke to him about it. The Doctor said one sentence that changed him. He said “Cut down on alcohol and you will have more time with your grandkids.” Whatever that motivation is, getting and keeping it is crucial towards your success in your exercise program. I often tell people to keep your eye on the prize (long term) as well as setting short term goals. For example, when your legs start to get tired during a jog, finishing up that last half a mile to complete your 3-mile jog not only makes you feel good mentally that you did not give up, but also all those days of jogging will pay off when you feel how loose your clothes are fitting. Find your motivation, use it to your advantage and kick start that exercise program you have been putting off. Find what works for you, Find what you enjoy and incorporate it into your workouts. I enjoy playing basketball, so I will do basketball drills instead of running on the treadmill some days. My brother enjoys golfing, so he will walk the course instead of driving a cart on some days. Better yet Start burning fat today. Check out the Negative Calorie Diet. Often we hear about going from the “I’m thinking about buying” stage to the “I’m ready to buy” stage. This is no different from the “I’m thinking of getting into shape” to “I’m ready to do what it takes to get into shape.” It is all a matter of perception. I know it sounds corny but it’s true what they say - “If you can dream it, you can achieve it.” Or better yet, “The only person in your way is yourself.” So get out of the way and let yourself through.