Committing to My Goals When I Don’t Feel Like it

There are days when I am not thrilled about what I have going on. I try to make my training calendar as simple and consistent as possible. This primes my body to just do what I need to do on a particular day. My mind knows that it can’t override the training because I haven’t let it before, so staying consistent really helps me flex my “get it done” muscle.

When I am feeling less motivated, I look at what’s going on in other areas in my life. I ask:

Am I getting enough sleep?

Am I eating healthy? 

Have I skipped my recovery time?

Is my training feeling more like a job? Do I need to insert some joy?

Do I need more “time in” or “time out” in any areas of my life?

Usually, a “no” answer to any of these questions can explain the gap. I push through for the day and set myself up for future success by adjusting to what is missing.

Being a natural task master, I have to remind myself to enjoy the journey. When I take time to enjoy and be present with my goals, then I have a different attitude toward them. They are more than a checked box and are honored as my goals versus tasks to complete.

Having a Coach, Co-worker, or App

Something or someone that holds me accountable is essential to my success. For example, if I know I have a long workout or training session that will be mentally draining, I recruit a friend to help me stick to the plan. I also share big and micro goals with friends who act as accountability partners. We support each other in the same way, learn from each other, and report back to one another. I also love using the Training Peaks app for recording my workouts, creating a history of physical and mental work to which I can refer. I know if I have to put a zero in the app when I skip a workout, I’m going to be upset about not honoring myself. That alone is enough motivation for me to stick to my goals. An unchecked box in my world is devastating!