How to stay Motivated

Maintaining Motivation to Stay Active Through the Dark, Winter Months

   Do you have trouble switching gears when the weather changes? You are not alone!

   It can be difficult to stay motivated when the temperature drops and the sun sets earlier. Loss of daylight can affect our physical and mental well-being. So it’s important we find ways to keep our bodies moving, given that exercise is one of the most important things we can do for our health. Benefits of exercise include weight management, reduced mortality rate, improved mood and energy, along with many more. 

   Therefore, it’s important to find ways to stay physically active even when staying in bed sounds more appealing than hitting the gym. Here are a few tips to help maintain motivation throughout the dark, cold winter months:

Change up your routine:

   Feeling stuck in a rut? Try switching up your routine. It’s true humans are creatures of habit but sometimes doing the same thing everyday can cause us to feel disengaged. Changing something in your daily routine can force your brain to pay more attention and be more productive which can lead to an increase in physical activity.

Make sleep a priority:

   On average, adults need 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Inadequate sleep can be detrimental to our health, leaving us fatigued and irritable. A good night’s sleep allows us to recharge and maintain energy levels throughout the day, giving us a chance to make the most out of our workout. 

Set a goal, write it down:

   You are more likely to achieve your goals if you write them down. Ask yourself what you are trying to accomplish by clarifying what you want to do, when you’d like to do it by, and how you know you’ve done it. The satisfaction felt when achieving your goal and being able to cross it off your list is immeasurable!

Have someone to hold you accountable:

   It can be easy to talk yourself out of doing something when lacking motivation. Whether it’s a friend or a personal trainer, having someone else to hold you accountable can give you that extra boost to stay on track with your goals. 

Prepare the night before:

   Before going to bed, get everything ready for the next day. Doing small things, such as setting a timer on your coffee pot and packing your gym bag, the night before can make a huge impact on the next morning. Not having to sweat the small stuff will help you feel ready to take on the day.

Remind yourself how you’ll feel after:

   How did you feel after your last workout? Physical activity releases chemicals from your brain associated with feelings of pleasure. Although exercising might be the last thing you want to do in the moment, imagine how great you will feel after you’re finished!

   By implementing strategies like these during the winter blues, you’ll be setting yourself up for improved health, happiness, and energy!