Momentum & Motivation
Dear Aspen reader,
Lately I have found myself using the word “momentum” in various conversations. Often, it’s in reference to NOT having momentum for the day to day routines (laundry, exercising, meal planning, cleaning). As I consider the word, it seems that I am referring to stagnation or (basically) not moving in sync with what I feel should be happening. When I really break it down, this feeling of low momentum can be traced back to a lack of motivation. In these moments, I find myself wondering where my motivation has gone and why it won’t seem to pick back up. I’m generally a motivated person in most areas so it always seems a bit alarming when I find myself in a rut. There are a few things I’ve learned about motivation and momentum, let me share:
Motivation comes and goes…and that’s ok!
When I was working full-time in the classroom, it was inevitable every year, that it would take a month or so to get into the routine of the daily grind. I’ve found that it’s the same in the context of wellness. Life has natural breaks and events that may cause you to press pause on wellness routines. Getting back into a regular schedule and finding the momentum and motivation to begin again can take time. Start with small activities to start moving again or choose to meal plan a few days until you get back into a strong routine.
Creating a list can help increase motivation.
It’s all about small gains here. During times where motivation is low, I find that creating a to-do list (as short or long as I may need) helps me keep from feeling overwhelmed with all the tasks at hand. It also serves as a small motivator when I check an item off the list. Sometimes I’ll even add a task to the list that I’ve completed but wasn’t previously on it, just to have the satisfaction of checking it off. Create a list of possible ways to move your body (walking to the mailbox, walking around the office every 30 minutes to move your legs, performing a few air squats during the lunch hour, etc) Throughout the week, challenge yourself to see if you can engage in one, then two, then three and so on.
Building motivation lies in the why, what, where and how.
I’m a firm believer that everyone is motivated for something. Asking the questions of why, what, where and how can often move you towards digging deeper into your reasons for wanting to live a healthier life. You can take mental notes or write down your answers if you’re feeling inspired.
Whichever method works for you, stick with it over a period of time and you’ll see yourself becoming more motivated each day.
In health,
Alecia
Life has natural breaks and events that may cause you to press pause on wellness routines. Getting back into a regular schedule and finding the momentum and motivation to begin again can take time.