"MOTIVATION is not a matter of will-power, it is a matter of want-power." Randall D. Worley
How do you stick to your walking program?
In the famous words of Nike, 'Just do it!' But we all know that it is easier said than done. There are an amazing amount of self-sabotage factors that come into play as soon as you make a decision to lose weight and start walking.
You MUST have a plan and a realistic goal! I bet you have heard that a million times before...but have you actually done it? All too often we set ourselves unrealistic goals and get frustrated and disheartened when we fall off the bandwagon. These 'feelings' now provide perfect ammunition for our self negative talk and self sabotage.
Your eating and exercise (or lack off) habits have been formed over many years and they have become just that - habits. Habits are just something you do, they are automatic and you don't even think about them. They are so ingrained that they are actually part of you! Now, all of a sudden, out of nowhere, with no plan and no discussion you decide that you want to start a walking program say at 5.45am every morning - is it really fair to expect your body and mind to forget everything its known and jump out of bed in the morning with out a any resistance?
Treat your body and mind with respect and you will get it back ten fold.
Here is a little experiment for you to try...
Scenario 1
You are going to walk up to your partner and you are going to TELL THEM that they are going to start a walking program with you at 5.45am in the morning, every morning, as from tomorrow. There is no discussion. It is just how it is going to be from now on.
Imagine their reaction!
But on the off chance they did say "OK, lets do it" - how long will it last before the excuses start coming,
"I feel a little crook today honey",
"Can we walk tonight?",
"The dogs sick, I've got to stay home."
" Just five minutes more - its so warm and cozy in here"
Scenario 2
What if we sat down with our partner and discussed the idea about starting a walking program. Part of that discussion would be
Why you want to start walking, ie lose weight, get healthier, more energy to play with the kids etc
When is the best time to walk - ie, have a look at work schedules, kids schedules, etc -mornings may not be the best time to walk.
How are you going to fit walking in to your daily routine? Find the opportunities!
Frequency of walking - Looking through your schedule, you can definitely commit to three walks a week to begin with.
In scenario 2 you have created a plan and most importantly 'willing participation'
Your subconscious mind will react the same way as your partner did with either scenario. Which one will you pick?
Become a Willing Participant in your goal
Take time to plan and have a discussion with yourself and you stand a far greater chance of Sticking with your Walking.
Author
Kate Crosby Co -founder WalkingwithAttitude.com inspiring everyone to walk towards a healthier lifestyle with online walking programs, workplace 10,000 step challenges.
Happy Reading!
