Hey readers, Rob here waiting in anxious anticipation for my 10am client (mind you I will probably post this after the fact but that’s initially what’s going on right now). I threw together a pretty interesting styled workout for us to do together, as a little progression from his current routine set. I’m not sure if the excitement is mutual, but I know I get pretty hyped up before a session. Any ways, I digress… Today I wanted to post a little mental motivation for all of you fitness enthusiasts that helps motivate me (however I tend to forget the concept until the rough patch gets a tad rougher than I’d like… despite the “killing with a smile” demeanor and task master reputation I have apparently developed over the years, I’m still in fact human).
Have you ever begun working on a new concept, or developing a new hobby or something along those lines? There are plenty of times when you are growing into something new whether it be a new exercise or even a long standing lifestyle when you hit a slump. I find this happens very often, oddly enough not with new exercisers but with experienced ones as well. This slump can be just an oddball day where you just feel like you’re out of whack, or a rough patch that drags you down like quicksand… This proverbial quicksand can be anything from lack of motivation and other worldly stresses; or something as simple as gaining an extra pound or 2 that make your current… well… everything… seem overwhelming and unproductive. At this point you are probably nodding your head in agreement thinking about recent months (possibly holiday weight gain, or New Years work insanity) and how it has affected you in the long run. I have a few little methods that help me get back into gear, ready to make some crazy gains in the gym!
--First little method is a very simple (yet for some very alien) concept. Change up your routine! Whether its in the gym, at your office or at home... Shake things up and get creative through using new equipment, new concepts, or even seek someone to help you in your journey! I have been training for 6 years… and I still hire trainers or seek the help of fellow peers! An extra set of eyes, a little advice or an entire routine overhaul does wonders for a person. It also helps us learn, which brings me to my next method.
--Learn something new! Take a clinic or class, or read up on new information and research. Refreshing the mind and challenging it into something new or interesting can do wonders! I find when things get stagnant whether it involves life or in the gym, clearing an afternoon and taking a class or reading up on new things really helps me keep fresh. I know some people loath the concepts of school or learning, and shudder at the fact that it might take some time or effort… but that’s the beauty in it. That’s time spent on something you want to know and you value! I am perfectly content holding myself up in my home office reading research journals; however I am human and if you ask me to read up on the latest… say… celeb gossip, I think I would happily pass!
--Take a step back and look at everything you have going on, and break things down and plan! For a busy body, planning and organizing can make even the most intense schedule seem moderate and easy going. Why do you think business executives live out of their schedule books and secretaries? An organized lifestyle sways chaos, thus making stress minimal. Planning is just as important! If you know you are going to have a crazy week (after looking at your well organized schedule), plan out your other little details. Your eating habits and sleep are important, so make sure you do what you must to monopolize on those; as well as “you” time! Pre-cook your meals, figure out what you want to do and what you need to, and plan out when you will be training!
Remember… Life does not stop no matter what is going on. We are always learning, we are always developing, and no one is perfect! Slumps can happen! Be constructive, open and ambitious. Success is not a straight line from beginning to end… there are plenty of dips and bends. The key is to make them work for you the best you can, so whether you are working for that perfect model physique or that executive seat at your exclusive corporate career… learn, change up your approach, and stay well organized!
