motivation

[gimmeahorse]

I realize that what motivates one person, might be just the opposite for another, but when you're discouraged, a little achy, and you just want to curl up with a book, a blankie and a plate of fries & gravy....what do you do....

Last night I did NOT want to go to weightlifting, but I did anyway and sweat my arse off, came home and slept like a baby.  I'd tried running again, could only get two poles, walk one, two poles, etc. - did 2 km and then showered/dressed for work.  Was discouraged.  I will go - I will wade through this low cycle and come out the other side happy that I just trudged along.  But holy flappin' cape, Batman...some days!!!

Just curious - nosy actually - share please?

[Sandy]

Yes sometimes it's hard to get motivated to get going and everyone responds to different motivations.  I find if I'm in a low motivation period that I make dates with others just so I know I can't stay at home, then even if I feel like flaking i have someone waiting.  Some times the time or distance is overwhelming so I tell myself that instead of going for 30 minutes all I have to do is 15 minutes then once I get out and warmed up I often do what I'm supposed.  Other times it's what I'm doing so that if I am programmed to run but don't feel like it I tell myself all I have to do is walk, I usually start by walk and then when warmed up I start to run.

If you are finsing it hard because of heat or humidity try slowing down before you walk and see if you can extend your distance.

[NancyR]

What motivates me is the burst of energy I have after a run.  I sometimes have to push through the "not wanting to go" but always feel better after any exercise. So I focus on thinking about that. Amazingly the odd time when I really fight it, make excuses, feel too busy, those days I seem to have a super run. ie go further, or faster and feel extra great afterward.

Just stay with it... a little bit at a time!

Nancy

[Newt]

If really, really don't feel like doing it, then I think it's a sign I need a rest. So I pass on the intended workout and do something light or some chores I've been neglecting. But then I'm lazier than the average bear.

Peace
Peter

[Sandy]

Isn't that funny because I would describe myself that way as well.  Any opportunity to put my feet up is wlecomed!

[NancyR]

...lol "lazier than the average bear"

Nancy

[Janet]

Well Peter chores has the opposite effect on me. I just think about all of the chores I should be doing, and decide working out would be so much easier and more fun .  Remember "housework is for women who don't tri!"

[Newt]

Sometimes housework seems easier than a 25km run in the heat and humidity, with tired legs from a hard long bicycle ride the day before. 

Peace
Peter

[gimmeahorse]

Thanks, all....it is interesting to read your thoughts.  I totally appreciate learning about what's "right" for the individual, honouring the signs but knowing when to ignore them versus do something about them.  Great life if you don't weaken!   lol

[Newt]

That's exactly what we were trying to say.

Peace
Peter

[Kate]

I find that the feeling I get from not doing a scheduled workout (aka guilt) feels worse than the forcing myself to get out there and do it when I don't want to feeling.   

What works for one person might not work for another, but the one thing tried and true that I find works for most (including me) is what Sandy said from the start ~ find a running buddy.  Someone who will encourage you to meet them at the curb every time so that you can't make excuses not to go.