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| Motivation Road Sign |
In the past, I've struggled with the motivation to walk/run. Currently I am stuck in the same rut. It may just come down to the Nike slogan "Just do it"! Trying to really think about the things that I want, then to focus on that is my goal. What I want most is to be able to say "yeah, I just ran 4 miles" or "let's go for a 3 mile run", "a half marathon? let's train for that". For me, the toughest part is actually getting to that point. To tell the truth, I'm not a big fan of exercise. But I need to put the work in to get this result, I really want to like running, I do!!!
So I've been thinking of what things I can do to get my mind off the "I hate exercise" mentality and more towards the goal of "I <3 running". Here are somethings that I came up with:
- Walk with a partner
- Listening to music on the run
- Set a timed walk/run goal (run 15 sec/ walk 45 sec, repeat)
- Exercise before anything else
- Listen to talk radio or a pod cast
What helps get you motivated to walk/run? What gets you from the "I hates" or the "don't wants" to the gratification of "I did its" and reaching your goal? Tell me what has helped you in the past or is helping you now.
Picture courtesy of: http://themanagementexperts.com/motivation-made-simple/
There are a few things that get me motivated or allow me to "zone out" so I don't focus on the actual aspect of running, but more on the getting to the goal/end.
ReplyDelete1) Music - I always have music on... loud, upbeat, pop/rock/dance music that gives you a good rhythm to focus on. I usually find myself in step with a beat.
2) Water break - I have worked a no-more-than 10 minute water break into my run. Where? At my favorite place where they know my name -- Starbucks. Not only do the baristas have my water ready for me before I get to the register, they always offer support and motivation. I always get a "Good job", "Good for you", "You make me want to start running again", "That's awesome","I'm so proud of you", and/or "Keep it up!"
3) Posting my journal entry to Facebook - This allows people to see progress and whether I have good days or bad days. People can comment to help encourage and motivate me some more. Also helps to keep me accountable. I know if I slack off, people will see it.
4) Simplicity - Set simple goals to achieve when you are just starting out. Once you achieve the smaller goals, you can gradually increase your goals based on your progress. This way, none of your goals are impossible.
Find what works for you. Happy running!