It’s not uncommon for new year resolutions to take a hike after the first couple of months. Inspiration and motivation are fantastic for getting started, but sometimes they don’t make the cut for longevity.
How do you stay strong and stick to that “new year, new you” resolution when life pulls you in different directions? The key to success is out there. You just have to find the one that works best for you.
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Remember why you started.
Exercising is more than just “gym time.” It’s a lifestyle choice; habits take time to develop, and this is one habit you have to work at. Why are you doing this? To lose weight? To get stronger? To crawl around on the floor and play with your grandkids or your own kids? There’s something you want, and the outcome is completely in your control. Keep that in mind, so even the hard days feel worth it.
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Accountability.
Time to pick your workout buddy. Compete, encourage each other, push each other, and just keep going. Having a partner forces you to schedule time to get a workout in, and having someone rely on you for the workout is a great motivator to show up.
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No buddy? No problem.
Not everyone loves having a workout buddy, and that’s OK. If you aren’t the partner type, join an online forum, or ask a friend to check in on your progress. Hold weigh-in parties where everyone gets together to measure inches lost, strength gained, weight lost. This can be fun and motivating.
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Don’t get discouraged when you “fall off the wagon.”
Hey, life happens. If you fall out of your routine, don’t give up. Whether it’s eating healthy or getting your workouts in, it’s OK if gaps happen here and there. Read that again … IT’S OK! Just remember your “why” and hop back into it. You don’t have to wait another 300 days to start again.
By Rachael Cornelius, NASM-CPT (certified personal trainer) and contributing writer.
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