One of the most common challenges my athletes face is finding motivation when they feel drained. It’s a struggle we all experience at some point, and it’s important to understand that motivation isn’t just a burst of inspiration—it’s a practice.
I’ve spent years studying what motivates people and learning how to help others discover what drives them, especially when it comes to health and fitness. My own motivation to live a long, vibrant life was shaped by my career as a dental hygienist. In my 30 years in dentistry, I saw the stark contrast between patients in their 40s already battling preventable health issues and those over 100 still walking, active, and full of life. When I asked my older patients what their secret was, they all said the same thing: “Never stop moving and taking care of yourself.” Those words changed me forever.
But how do you find your own motivator? It could be anything—from wanting to feel confident in your clothes, to being medication-free, or even simply wanting to enjoy an active life as you age. Whatever your reason, it’s important to reflect on what really drives you. If your current motivator isn’t serving you, take the time to redefine what truly matters to you.
When you’re feeling unmotivated, it’s important to pause and reflect on what’s holding you back. Often, the hardest part is just starting. Journaling is a powerful tool to help clarify what you fear, where you want to go, and what your plan of action is. Write down your thoughts, goals, and obstacles—sometimes just getting them on paper can make a world of difference.
Start with consistency, even if that means doing just five minutes of your workout. Some days, the whole workout can feel overwhelming, but five minutes? You can do that! Over time, you’ll find that doing something consistently leads to increased motivation and progress. Little by little, you’ll start to see results and feel stronger.
Many of my athletes find motivation when they see results—whether that’s weight loss, faster times, or increased endurance. But when progress slows or plateaus, it’s normal to feel discouraged. At this point, it’s important to shake things up. Adjusting your routine can reignite your motivation and help push you past those plateaus.
Remember, as you get closer to your goals, the changes in your performance may be smaller and less noticeable. Early gains are usually big and exciting, but as you approach your peak, progress becomes more subtle. This isn’t a sign of failure—it’s a sign that you’re getting closer to your potential!
Lastly, motivation is deeply psychological. Sometimes, even knowing how important your goals are for your health and well-being isn’t enough to get you moving. When you feel stuck, take time to sit with your thoughts and journal. You may discover that something from your past is holding you back subconsciously. By unraveling these layers, you can begin to heal old wounds and reignite your motivation.
In the end, finding motivation is a journey. It’s not just about pushing through every day—it’s about uncovering what truly drives you and learning to honor where you are, physically and mentally, in each moment. With patience, consistency, and a willingness to reflect, you’ll find your way back to your goals, even when you feel like you have nothing left to give.