When starting a new project, most of us vow to attack it full throttle, with the goal of seeing our project through to the end. Indeed, desire and motivation are a dynamite duo. The former gets us going and the latter keeps us on track.
Yet after the initial excitement, motivation and willpower can wane. This is especially true when difficult times throw you off track or roadblocks appear. Let’s face it, maintaining staying power can be tough – especially during the holidays. No matter what the task, there's usually some obstacle or temptation to keep us from our goal. That's why it's so important to stay positive. Easier said than done?
Well, try these upbeat attitude enhancers -- and give your willpower a bump.
Celebrate the here and now. As long as you're committed to your plan today, you're succeeding because you're taking charge of your life. Focusing on goals that are far in the future can sap motivation.
Change your language. Scratch negative phrases from your vocabulary. Instead of saying "No," "I can't" or "I'll try," substitute the positive. Say: "Yes!" "I can" and "I will."
Create visual inspiration. Find a photo of yourself before you started your diet. Tack it on the refrigerator, a bedroom or bathroom mirror or inside the food cupboard. As you reach new goals, take new pictures, visually marking your progress.
Weigh in. And track your results. Look at your overall progress and visualize that chart whenever you're tempted by less-than-healthy choices.
Partner up. Exercising with friends is always more enjoyable. Schedule days to meet with your partner, and if one of you tries to bow out, act as the other's conscience. Or participate in a community fitness challenge, or look for virtual dieting buddies on line.
Steer clear of sabotage. Avoid people who put you down for trying to lose weight, or who encourage you to eat too much. Often these folks feel threatened by your weight loss.
Set mini goals. Start with aiming to lose 10 percent of your body weight. By setting realistic goals, you're more likely to reach them, feel successful and move on from there.
Reward yourself. When you've reached a goal (and remember to keep them small), you deserve a treat. Buy new clothes, a book or CD, or take yourself to a movie or sporting event.
Keep reminders in plain sight. Treadmills, bicycles, weights, even sneakers and exercise outfits should be left where you can see them. Don't store your exercise gear under the bed or in the basement. That will only hide the fact that you need to exercise.
Read success stories. Motivation often comes from reading about the way others have found success. Just think: "One day the story is going to be mine!"
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