January's resolutions, those well-intentioned promises to get fit, be more social, and generally become a better version of ourselves, can feel like a distant memory. If you're experiencing a dip in motivation, you're not alone. It's perfectly normal to feel the initial excitement wane as the daily grind takes over. But don't despair! This isn't the time to throw in the towel. It's the perfect opportunity to reignite that spark and build sustainable habits that will carry you through the year.
Maintaining Motivation:
Often we set New Year resolutions without thinking about the “why” behind what we are setting. I’m sure we’d all like to lose a few pounds, tone up and become part of bigger social circles, but why? Is it for your health, your family, or your mental well-being? Connecting with your “why” will keep you going when the going gets tough. Have a go at writing it down, get deep and personal because exploring that will give you something to reflect on when you next want to binge on Cadbury Wispa bars in front of the TV. Here are some top tips for with motivation is lacking:
Make it fun, not a chore: Exercise and socialising shouldn't feel like punishment. Find activities you genuinely enjoy. Explore different sports, classes, or social groups until you discover what makes you tick.
Variety is the spice of life: Mixing up your routine can prevent boredom and keep you engaged. Try different types of workouts, explore new social venues, and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.
Buddy up: Having a workout buddy or a friend to attend social events with can provide much-needed support, and accountability, which will make the whole experience more enjoyable.
Celebrate the small wins: Acknowledge and celebrate every milestone, no matter how small. This reinforces positive behaviour and keeps you motivated to keep pushing forward. Go out and buy that new pair of trainers, and remember that a celebration doesn't always have to be in the form of food.
Everyone hits roadblocks. It's part of the journey. Here's how to navigate them:
Know your triggers: What are the things that derail your efforts? Is it a lack of time, low energy, self-doubt, or social anxiety? Identifying your triggers is the first step to overcoming them.
Plan ahead, be prepared: Schedule your workouts and social events in your calendar. Treat them like important appointments you can't miss, just as you would with work.
Flexibility is key: Life throws curveballs. Be prepared to adjust your plans when unexpected events arise. Missing a workout or a social gathering isn't the end of the world. Just get back on track as soon as you can.
Don't be afraid to ask for help: If you're struggling, reach out to a friend, family member, or professional for support. Sometimes, a little encouragement or guidance is all we need. The Wellness Leads and Wellness Team are always happy to help.
Embrace imperfection: Nobody's perfect. There will be days when you lack the motivation or energy to stick to your plan. That's okay. Don't let a few slip-ups derail your entire journey.
Playing the long game:
Remember, building lasting habits and achieving your goals takes time. A new habit can take 66 days to implement before it becomes routine, we aren’t 66 days into 2025 yet, so just keep going. By setting realistic goals, maintaining motivation, and navigating the inevitable obstacles, you can create a healthier, happier, and more connected you. So, dust yourself off, refocus, and get back in the game!
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