Override the Urge to Quit (9 ways)
We are now 5 weeks into 2015, the time when most people have already bailed on their resolutions. Today I’m here to encourage you to override that urge to quit with these nine ways.
1. Remember Why You Started
In the middle of a workout, it can be hard to push through another set of lunges, squats, or deadlifts. Don’t let the difficulty stop you. Remember why you’re there in the first place—the resolution you made at the beginning of the year, the desire to be healthier than you’ve ever been, the plan to trim extra pounds off your frame. Whatever the reason, keep this front and center to stay the course.
2. Speak Positive Truths
A few weeks before you felt like giving up, you could take on the world. In that mindset, you were continuously telling yourself that you could tackle whatever monsters showed up at the gym. What’s different now? Remind yourself over and over that you can do it! Then take your words to heart and get back on the treadmill and under the barbell.
3. It’s Just a Valley
Like all of life, the desire to work out comes in waves. Yesterday, there was nothing you’d rather do. Today, working out is the last thing you would do if given a choice. So don’t give yourself a choice. Because as difficult as it may be today, once you knock out this routine, tomorrow may be the day you fall in love with exercise all over again.
4. Play It Loud
Having problems staying focused in the gym? Get back on track by turning up you favorite workout tracks. By making it loud enough to drown out the distracting noises all around you, you may find that you become more engaged in your routine and have greater endurance during each day’s workout. Should you find both of these because of your music, don’t be surprised. Researchers have found the exact same benefits.
5. They Expect You to Quit
Over the years, you may have made big plans. Whether to travel the world, change the world, drop a bad habit, or pick up a good one, your friends have seen you fail at more than one attempt. Or maybe they’ve failed at their own attempts. Whatever the cause, they doubt you’ll succeed. Walking away from one workout may not seem like a big deal, but it can lead to a lifetime of walking away, ultimately proving the naysayers right.
6. Look at the Ladies
Or the guys. Whoever gives you motivation to look and feel better, keep them in mind when you feel like giving up. Married with kids? Keep your spouse in mind. Because while you may have already landed the best-looking guy or gal around, nothing says, “I love you” like continued dedication to look your best for your sweet thing.
7. Eat Well
Getting fit and losing weight often go hand in hand. However, if you think you can increase your fitness while also cutting the calories you’re consuming, you may be mistaken. If your body doesn’t get enough good fuel, you’re not going to feel like doing much of anything—especially rigorous exercise. So be sure to fuel up properly before and after your workout to keep your body working on all cylinders.
8. Get to Bed
No matter what time of day you work out, you’re going to fall flat if you don’t get the shuteye you need. Not only does sleep give you energy to get through the day, but it also helps keep your body in rhythm so it reacts properly when pushed. Hit the hay at a decent hour each night and watch your urge to quit go away like a bad dream.
9. Picture the New You
I know you can see it. You, at your goal weight, tight, trim and looking like a million bucks. Don’t lose sight of this picture, until it becomes the reality that you see in the mirror every day. You have what it takes to become your best self – I know this because I’ve seen scores of my clients before you achieve greatness. Don’t lose sight of your potential – I know I won’t.
If you aren’t yet one of my clients, then take this opportunity to do something wonderful for yourself. Call or email today to get started on the most effective fitness program that you’ll ever find.
Remember that…Winners never quit and quitters never win.