The battle to stay motivated

the key

Last night I didn’t have much of a rest. I slept a few hours, but not the nice 6-7 hours I really need to feel good for a whole day. And today was a hard day at work, or what passes for hard in my job. So by the end of the day, I was tired! I wanted to come home and chill out. Read the Internets, read a book, play some music. Snuggle with the Miyouch.

But, I also had packed my gym bag this morning, and said to myself, I said “Self, today you WILL go to the gym, no matter what!” (Since I didn’t go yesterday). So, even as I left the office and headed to my car, I was debating whether or not to go. “It’s just one day,” I told myself, “it won’t hurt.”  “You’re in ok shape already. Don’t stress yourself. You need some rest,” et cetera, et cetera. Lots of mealy-mouthed, half-baked, semi-plausible excuses.

But then I thought of something, a quote which was given to me by a great friend, and one which I repeat all the time to my loved ones: Consistency is Key. … That’s it. Once that refrain resonated in my skull, I knew what had to be done. There was no more wavering. I hopped in my ride, drove up to Crunch, parked the beast, and strolled into the gym. Once I was there, guess what – I felt great! I didn’t feel exhausted, or worn out, or lazy. In fact, I really challenged myself and had a kick-ass session, probably my best one this year.

Wow, what a great feeling. I realize a good workout is a small thing. But the impacts of sticking to your plan, of feeding your good nature, rather than your lazy nature, those are not small things. They are the most profound of things. This is a battle each of us fights every day, whether we follow the easy path or take on challenges. Today, I was saved by three little words that have become something of a mantra for me. And it feels awesome.