Recently I was asked, “Why do you focus so much on race results when you don’t win? You’re always losing.”
Ya-ouch! What a de-motivating statement! But I get it. It’s the American way. You only play if you’re a winner. Yeah, right…yawn!
My view is this: I win every time I cross the finish line. I win every time I show up. I win every time I get a workout done. Hey, I win every time I show up for a workout!
What’s My Motivation?
That race or triathlon I signed up for! That’s because I’ve forked over hard-earned cash and, in most cases, something I haven’t experienced before. It might require some travel planning, changes to a current training program, and definitely an element of the unknown. Will the weather cooperate? Will my training go well? Sure, I know getting into and staying in shape is important. But the benefits of improved moods and overall health are “logical” motivators. Not very sexy or adventurous!
How My Motivation’s Ebbs & Flows
Getting motivated is much easier than staying motivated! The excitement of doing a race can dull in time. We can even get comfortable with the fear we’re feeling about a health issue.
This is why motivation isn’t static. It can ebbs and flow with our emotional state in any given moment.
I confess: I did nothing last week. No strength training sessions. No walking or indoor cycling workouts. Not even a single sit up or leg lift. Sure, I could point to numerous “reasons” such as hot summer weather, business travel, interruptions, surprises, repairs, family needs, home improvement work, and daily household tasks that demanded my attention.
The reality is that my inner three-year-old got the best of me. She didn’t want to play…at anything. My adult inner critic argued with that toddler and fussed and fumed over everything else. I quickly began doubting my ability to do the 5K hill climb at the Huntsman World Senior Games in less than three months.
Eghads, is it any wonder I wanted to dive into a gallon of chocolate ice cream?
Motivation’s Waiting Game
Will one week of no workouts harm my race results in October? Maybe, or maybe not. My body benefits from periods of rest.
Will my motivation to get back in action ever come back? Yes, it always does, but on its own schedule.
My motivation will rise with the tide.