You would think that after my last post, I would have kicked my butt into gear and started doing something, so I’m embarrassed to say that I still haven’t started exercising.
I went to a pilates class two years ago (ahem…the last time I exercised), so I thought that would be a good place to start. I was going to go tonight, but then a meeting ran late, and I didn’t have time to change my clothes, and…insert a series of excuses here. So, in my current defeated state, here’s a (somewhat hypocritical) guide to self-motivation.
Finding the Motivation to Exercise
1. Write down your goals. It’s easy to forget (or avoid) goals if you have no record of them. And in the grand scheme of things, it’s helpful to have a long-term plan so you can see what you’re working towards. As I found out, just saying, “I’m going to go to a fitness class sometime” isn’t enough. So I’m going to go to a pilates class this Thursday, October 15 from 5-5:45. And once I’ve limped my way back to my computer, I’m going to tell you all how it went. If there isn’t a new post by Friday, I give you all permission to call me out on it. And that leads to step two…
2. Find someone to hold you accountable. If someone’s cheering you on – or better yet, exercising with you – you’ll feel like you’re letting them down if you skip a workout or a class. And I’ve heard that it’s just generally more fun to work out with your friends (some websites even let you search for a workout partner in your area). At some point, I hope I’ll enjoy exercising enough to do it alone, but for now, I’m enlisting my friend Martha (an exercise goddess, essentially) to attend Thursday’s pilates class with me.
3. Put it in ink (or on Google Calendar). I’m a slave to my calendar. If something’s on there, I’m going to do it. And because exercising’s not part of my routine yet, treating it like an appointment just might ensure that I’m there. I can just imagine how great it will feel to cross it off my “to do” list – and to tell you all about it afterward. So until next time…wish me luck.
[Photo courtesy of obit-mag.com]
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