We’ve all been there – hitting snooze instead of hitting the gym, rationalising that we’ll start tomorrow, or succumbing to the myriad of excuses that conveniently keep exercise at bay. Lack of time, energy, or motivation – these excuses often have a familiar ring. And sometimes we genuinely don’t have time.
But more often than not, we are telling ourselves this story in order to justify not doing the thing we REALLY don’t want to do. We are avoiding the responsibility of exercising, which we know our body needs in order to function at its best and to keep us healthy and happy.
Making excuses is familiar. Especially if you have been making them for years! So how do you change? How do you shift from being a pro at avoiding exercise to effortlessly moving your body on a daily basis?
It requires a shift in focus from your perceived barriers to exercise, to uncovering why exercise matters to you in the first place. Let’s explore how to take those excuses off speed dial and reignite our motivation to move.
Uncovering your why
The key to overcoming these excuses lies in understanding why exercise is essential to you. Is it to boost your energy levels, manage stress, or improve your overall health? Is it because you or a loved one has recently suffered a health scare, or because you just want to feel good about yourself, be pain free, and confident again. By connecting with your deeper motivations, you can cultivate a compelling reason to prioritise exercise despite the obstacles.
Write your “why” down, stick it on the wall. And every time you go to speed dial your next excuse, read your why. It’s common to believe exercise needs to be done in order to change the way you look. But when you drill down to the real reason, 99% of the time it’s not about aesthetics, but more to do with the way you want to feel.
Shift Your Perspective
Rather than viewing exercise as a chore, reframe it as an act of self-care and a way to invest in your well-being. Instead of saying “I have to exercise” you can say “I get to exercise”. Recognise the immediate and long-term benefits it brings to your physical and mental health, from increased energy and improved mood to enhanced confidence and resilience.
Set Realistic Goals
Break down your exercise goals into manageable steps and commit to small, achievable actions each day. Whether it’s a brisk walk during your lunch break or a short yoga session before bed, consistency is key. By setting realistic expectations, you’re less likely to be deterred by setbacks or obstacles along the way.
Find what moves you
Explore different forms of exercise until you find what resonates with you. Whether it’s dancing, cycling, hiking, or practicing yoga, choose activities that bring you joy and fulfilment. When exercise becomes something you look forward to rather than dread, it’s easier to stay motivated and committed.
Cultivate accountability and support
Enlist the support of friends, family, or a workout buddy to hold you accountable and keep you motivated. Whether it’s scheduling regular workout sessions together or sharing your progress and achievements, having a support system can help keep you on track and accountable to your goals. This is one of the most powerful benefits of being part of our BBackstage community – the support of like-minded women who have become each other’s cheerleaders.
Excuses may always linger, but by uncovering your why and shifting your perspective on exercise, you can take control of your health and well-being. Remember, exercise isn’t just about sculpting your body; it’s about nourishing your mind, body, and spirit. So, ditch the excuses, roll out your mat, and embark on a journey to discover the transformative power of movement. Your future self will thank you for it.
