You could be suffering from a lack of motivation. It happens to the best of us, even professional athletes. The trick is to find a source (or sources) of motivation that will keep you on the path to health and wellness.
1. "I can look like that again."
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Wishing you looked like that picture of yourself from months or even years ago? You can. Looking at pictures of yourself at a time when you were in shape and healthy, can help you stay motivated to keep going. Pin a picture in your room or on the fridge of what you desire to look like, and then get moving. It doesn't have to be a picture of you, either. If there's a celebrity or athlete who motivates you, by all means let them be your role model to get in shape. Just be careful of setting expectations too high. Understand your own body type and what you're capable of doing.
2. "I will be more active throughout the day."
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When you're in shape, you're more apt to stay active all day long. Whether that's playing outside with your kids or taking a hike with your friends, moving throughout the day will help you burn calories and boost your energy levels.
3. "I'm getting closer to my goals."
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Track your progress to see how you've improved over the days, weeks and months. When you see the results that you've accomplished, you're more likely to keep going. Keep a record of whatever you're working toward, whether that's weighing yourself once or twice a week, or running faster. When you see the scale or stopwatch time go down, you're goal will seem more realistic and you'll be more motivated.
4. "I can throw out my larger clothes."
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Do you have one pair of jeans for your "fat days"? Get rid of them. Donate them. Your "fat pants" are a safety net for you. If you only have jeans that fit you, you'll be more prone to stay motivated to stay that size.
5. "I will gain confidence."
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When you feel better about yourself and your body, your confidence will boost. Seeing how great you look in the mirror, or how wonderful you feel after a long, sweaty workout will make your confidence level peak.
6. "My social life will grow."
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Have you ever opted out of a fun evening with friends because you were embarrassed of how you looked, or worried that you wouldn't look good in any of your outfits? Once you get motivated, you'll no longer have the urge to stay in. You'll want to go out, socialize, and show off your new, improved look.
7. "Life is too short to be sad. I can be happy again."
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Working out builds endorphins, which boosts energy and happiness. Exercise releases feel-good brain chemicals that ease depression (endorphins), according to the Mayo Clinic.
8. "I will look and feel beautiful (and others will notice)."
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Working out is about you and how you feel. When you stay motivated, you'll feel a heck of a lot healthier and more beautiful. Those wonderful compliments here and there from family members or friends don't hurt either. When others commend you on your amazing results and tell you how great you look, your confidence level will soar and you'll want to stick to your routine.
9. "I can be a role model for others."
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Help others reach their goals. Show a close friend, child, sibling or co-worker what worked for you, and create a plan for them to succeed. Seeing others look at you as a role model, should motivate you keep up with all your hard work.
10. "I will be in charge of my own life."
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Empowerment is a great motivator. So, go ahead: empower yourself. Once you to take charge of your life, you'll find it easier to skip the tempting treats at work and indulge in delicious produce instead.
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