6 Secrets to Staying Motivated
28 January 2015
Read by 2301 persons
Here we are already in February! Most people start the new year with resolutions, and becoming healthier is often number one on the list. It's always easy to start, but not as easy to stay motivated.
As a yoga teacher, it's a phenomenon I can observe every year. The first month of the year, I have the chance to meet lots of new people, then... I don't see them anymore!
If I meet them by chance, they are quick to tell me "ah I missed the last classes, I apologize, I've been very busy! It's not you, it's me... I'll get back to it, that's for sure, it did me so much good".
Curious about this phenomenon, I started to study the behavior of the students who visit my class throughout the year. Here are six things they have in common and what I consider to be the secrets to staying motivated:
Have a partner
Let's be honest - everything is more fun when you're in good company. This also applies to your workouts or your yoga practice. Try it with a friend, it's great to have someone there to motivate us and I must admit that the simple fact of having to motivate someone else is also motivating. Plus, it's a good excuse to relax after the session with a good smoothie or tea!
Invest in your practice
Usually, when we invest in something, we take it more seriously. I don't know about you, but I like to enjoy my investment. Plus, it will enhance your practice. For example, a good yoga mat makes everything much more accessible, and why not buy clothes in which you will be proud to show yourself at the gym?
Have short-term and long-term goals
Having a list of goals to achieve helps maintain determination. You can even make a vision board for inspiration! Choose 3 short-term goals and 3 long-term goals, this way you will know where to put your energy to accomplish your goals.
Keep a journal of your progress
We often tend to forget our progress. What was difficult becomes easy and we forget how much we have progressed lately. So take notes in your diary or your smartphone to remind yourself how much good work you have already done. Note your sleep, your energy level, if a posture or movement is difficult, etc. You will be proud to see your improvement in a few months.
Have fun!
It's super important to choose to have fun in everything you do. If you exercise or practice yoga, do it with pleasure. Change if necessary if it becomes too routine or if it demands more effort than it gives you pleasure. Select a music "playlist" that gives you energy. Remember, it's your moment so enjoy it and have fun.
Reward yourself
It's important to celebrate your accomplishments. Reward yourself in a healthy way! Take time for yourself with a good massage, a pedicure, a new book or attend an event that you wouldn't have dared to attend before!
Always remember the reasons why you are doing what you are doing. I love vision boards for the inspiration they give me, just keep doing consistent actions and you're done! And you, what is your secret to staying motivated?
Virginie Duval.
Lasolutionestenvous.com
Posted online January 28, 2015.
As a yoga teacher, it's a phenomenon I can observe every year. The first month of the year, I have the chance to meet lots of new people, then... I don't see them anymore!
If I meet them by chance, they are quick to tell me "ah I missed the last classes, I apologize, I've been very busy! It's not you, it's me... I'll get back to it, that's for sure, it did me so much good".
Curious about this phenomenon, I started to study the behavior of the students who visit my class throughout the year. Here are six things they have in common and what I consider to be the secrets to staying motivated:
Have a partner
Let's be honest - everything is more fun when you're in good company. This also applies to your workouts or your yoga practice. Try it with a friend, it's great to have someone there to motivate us and I must admit that the simple fact of having to motivate someone else is also motivating. Plus, it's a good excuse to relax after the session with a good smoothie or tea!
Invest in your practice
Usually, when we invest in something, we take it more seriously. I don't know about you, but I like to enjoy my investment. Plus, it will enhance your practice. For example, a good yoga mat makes everything much more accessible, and why not buy clothes in which you will be proud to show yourself at the gym?
Have short-term and long-term goals
Having a list of goals to achieve helps maintain determination. You can even make a vision board for inspiration! Choose 3 short-term goals and 3 long-term goals, this way you will know where to put your energy to accomplish your goals.
Keep a journal of your progress
We often tend to forget our progress. What was difficult becomes easy and we forget how much we have progressed lately. So take notes in your diary or your smartphone to remind yourself how much good work you have already done. Note your sleep, your energy level, if a posture or movement is difficult, etc. You will be proud to see your improvement in a few months.
Have fun!
It's super important to choose to have fun in everything you do. If you exercise or practice yoga, do it with pleasure. Change if necessary if it becomes too routine or if it demands more effort than it gives you pleasure. Select a music "playlist" that gives you energy. Remember, it's your moment so enjoy it and have fun.
Reward yourself
It's important to celebrate your accomplishments. Reward yourself in a healthy way! Take time for yourself with a good massage, a pedicure, a new book or attend an event that you wouldn't have dared to attend before!
Always remember the reasons why you are doing what you are doing. I love vision boards for the inspiration they give me, just keep doing consistent actions and you're done! And you, what is your secret to staying motivated?
Virginie Duval.
Lasolutionestenvous.com
Posted online January 28, 2015.
