How to stay motivated on your health journey
Your health journey is a new commitment, below I share my experience and tips on how to embrace challenges along the way.
I used to take big steps too quickly, which didn’t work at all. I realised I was making the goal unattainable and trying to force radical change. It drained my positive energy and the experience was no longer fun. The results were disappointing and I would lose motivation. I needed to take small steps forward instead, otherwise I would never reach the goal at all!
This year I had two goals I wanted to prepare for mentally and physically: a 5K ocean swim from Guernsey to Herm and a Half Marathon. I chose these goals because I felt motivated to immerse myself in island-life and provide me with the opportunity to observe my mind-body response to the challenge (a natural curiosity for a health coach!).
In the process of my swim and run trainings, I needed to prepare in small and intentional ways to achieve them. At some point into the training, it became a lot of training in one week and I experienced intense tiredness. I tried to make schedule adjustments but it wasn’t enough, and I got a stress fracture in my foot! I decided to do the Half Marathon next year instead and although I experienced sadness in letting go of one of my goals, I felt peace within my decision. I allowed some time for my foot to heal and after some weeks of rest, my swim training became even better and more enjoyable! I felt so grateful for this improvement that I knew focusing on just one goal, was a much better choice for my body and mind.
This process taught me small steps are attainable and intentional, and allow you to recognise the things that are working for you and more importantly - the things that are not. If it no longer feels fun, attainable, or intentional then is it really worthwhile? Always remember that a fun approach can serve as a powerful inner motivation!
If you are having trouble to keep momentum with what you want to achieve, or need help working on a goal that works for you in a feasible way, I am here to guide you every step on journey! I can be an accountable partner for you and help make lasting change.
Click here to see what I offer or get in touch if you have any questions.
Much love,
X Charlotte
