Staying motivated isn’t about waiting for inspiration—it’s about mastering the art of showing up for yourself, even when you don’t feel like it. The best way to stay consistent is by focusing on small steps and achievable goals that guide you toward your ultimate goal. Let me share how I keep going, one mindful choice at a time. ✨
Jump to Motivation Tips Checklist
Motivation isn’t a constant—its so up and down. One day you will wake up totally pumped and on top of the world starting new habits, but realistically most times you are actually not going to feel like it, or will feel indifferent. Consistency isn’t really about willpower; it’s the small mindset shifts and habits you have to rely on when life gets tough. Whether it’s fitness goals, self-care, or learning a new skill, I’ve discovered effective ways to guide myself toward realistic goals, even on the hardest days. If you’re ready to set goals, build a positive mindset, and stay in the right direction, here’s what works for me:
1. On Skipping the Gym
We’ve all been there: you don’t want to go. Its raining, bitterly cold, dark, or maybe you have slept badly. When I feel this way, I ask myself a simple question: If the gym were literally next door, would I go? Most of the time, the answer is yes. This small trick reminds me that the hardest part is taking the first step. I grab my gym bag and remind myself that regular exercise is a great way to move closer to my fitness goal and long-term health. Even a short workout counts as progress, and I swear once I have those leggings on there is no stopping me lol.
2. Managing Food Cravings
When I’m tempted too many times by sugary treats, I pause and ask: What do I want more—this candy or the energy to work toward my personal goals? Sometimes I will take a look at pictures of my favourite health and fitness influencers, watch some before and after or progress videos and old pictures of when I felt fit. It’s not about perfection; it’s about small victories. Choosing healthier options more often than not is a practical tip that helps maintain a positive attitude while still enjoying life. Balance is key!
3. Too Tired to Work Out?
On days when I lack motivation e.g. if I have pms, have just got over a cold or flu, or sometimes if I havent worked out for a really long time. I want to feel the workout high without any other decision making, like what to wear or what music playlist to choose. I compromise with smaller goals: a silent home workout while streaming my favorite show.
How?
I find a free workout on youtube that meets my wishes (easy to follow and apartment friendly), then prop my phone up on a stable surface or in a phone holder so I have a good view standing (at a decent eye level so you’re not constantly looking down). Then I will find an easy watch show on a streaming service. I will start the workout on mute and watch my show. This approach creates an easy set up for movement without adding pressure. Bonus: By the time the show ends, I’ve often done more than planned—proof that smaller steps can lead to better results.
4. Too Lazy for Skin Care?
Skincare can feel overwhelming, especially during difficult times. This is where I recommend streamling the whole routine to make it faster. I simplify my routine with smaller tasks: double cleansing, moisturizer and spf. This minimal routine can have the added bonus of a natural skin reset. Giving your skin a boost without the interference of other active products.
5. Feeling Like Hibernating?
When I’m in a “hide from the world” mood, I find ways to stay connected to the world around me. I’ll crack open a window, go on the balcony or into the garden if you have one. Avoid any ‘running into someone you know’ paranoia, by going out very early or after the ‘rush hour’. A little fresh air brings positive energy and helps me re-center, even during a difficult time.
6. When Your Home Feels Overwhelming
Messy space, messy mind, right? Instead of getting paralyzed and stare into space for an hour. I set a timer—10, 15, 20 minutes, tops—and I clean as much as I can in that time. When the timer’s up, I’m done, no guilt. Most of the time, it’s enough to make my space feel livable again.
7. Don’t Feel Like Cooking?
We all have those days. Instead of reaching for greasy fast food, I lean on healthier alternatives: ordering my favorite nutritious meal, grabbing a pre-made salad, or stocking up on pre-cut veggies for quick stir-fries. It’s still convenient, but it helps me feel good about my choices.
Staying motivated isn’t about being perfect; it’s about finding what works for you. Whether it’s goal setting, positive self-talk, or simplifying your to-do list, the key is to focus on smaller goals that lead to your ultimate goal. Consistency, combined with a positive mindset, is a solid plan for personal growth. Remember, each step you take with a new habit—no matter how small—moves you closer to your finish line.
Motivation Tips Checklist
1. On Skipping the Gym
- Ask yourself a simple question: If the gym were literally next door, would you go?
2. Managing Food Cravings
- Ask yourself, what do you want more—the candy or the energy to work toward my personal goals? (e.g. dream body)
3. Too Tired to Work Out?
- Start an easy Youtube workout on mute using your phone and watch a show on another device.
4. Too Lazy for Skin Care?
- Simplify your routine with smaller tasks – ‘skinfasting‘ approach
5. Feeling Like Hibernating?
- Crack open a window, go on the balcony or into the garden if you have one. Morning sun can work wonders.
6. When Your Home Feels Overwhelming
- Set a timer—10, 15, 20 minutes, tops—and I clean as much as you can in that time. When the timer’s up, your done, NO guilt
7. Don’t Feel Like Cooking?
- Ready made healthier alternatives: order your favorite nutritious meal, grab a pre-made salad, or stock up on pre-cut veggies for quick stir-fries.
What’s your go-to trick for staying motivated when you lose motivation? Share your tips in the comments—I’d love to hear them! And if you’re ready to create an action plan and embrace a consistent, feel-good daily routine in the new year, let’s support each other. Here’s to making this the year of achieving our personal goals and showing up for ourselves! ✨
