Take a moment to reflect on something you’ve really wanted in your life that you’ve had to save up for. Maybe it was a fancy-ass meal in a Michelin star restaurant, a vacation you’ve dreamed of since you were young, or a high-end jacket you’ve had your eye on all year. Whatever it is, I want you to picture that moment in your mind when you saved up enough to make that dream come true. It felt incredible, right? Not just because you finally got to taste that meal, visit those destinations, or feel that fabric against your skin, but it’s the satisfaction of knowing you worked your ass off. There’s an immense sense of pride that comes from setting out to do something and achieving it.
You were able to make that magic happen for yourself because it was something you really wanted. When you made sacrifices to get there, like giving up your $5 daily coffee or skipping expensive nights out, you did it because the desire to see your goal to fruition outweighed the hard work. This same concept applies to your fitness journey, and it is the backbone of consistency.
To stay consistent, you’ve got to get honest with yourself and evaluate the importance. The first question to ask yourself is, “Is this or is this not important to me?” If you determine it’s not that important, consistency will definitely be a struggle, but that’s okay because you’ve already decided it’s not a priority. However, if you determine it is, then the next questions become, “How important?” and “Is it important right now?” You may have fitness goals that matter to you, but other goals are higher on your priority list at the moment. Understanding your list’s hierarchy allows you to set realistic expectations of yourself, which is vital for morale.
Now, let’s say you’ve evaluated and determined that this is a top tier priority of yours, and you’re ready to make it happen. How do you press on when you do not see instant results? How do you stay consistent when the inevitable occurs, and you experience setbacks, frustrations, scheduling conflicts, and so on? You’ve got to be able to find joy and happiness throughout the journey. I know that sounds cheesy, but if you’re only lukewarm about your goal and maybe even loathing the process, you won’t be able to stick with it when things get bumpy. There has to be a thrill-of-the-chase aspect to your mindset to guide you through the nitty-gritty.
You can keep the excitement alive by creating daily habits that are slightly challenging but doable. Aim to check things off your list every day to make sure you’re moving in the right direction. If your daily routine is overwhelming, you’ll end up seeing each task as a chore instead of an opportunity, and unhappiness (plus inconsistency) will follow.
It’s also important to enjoy what you’re doing. If you hate indoor cardio and you’re spending five days a week on the treadmill, or you’re eating “healthy foods” that make you plug your nose just to chug down, you’re not going to be able to keep it up for long. Take the time to find ways to reach your goals by doing things that genuinely make you appreciate the journey.
At the end of the day, nobody is making you do this. You have to decide for yourself, by yourself, that this is what you want. Then, hold yourself to a standard and follow through. By evaluating the importance of your goal and making space for fun along the way, you will find that consistency isn’t as complicated as you may have once believed. Anything you want to achieve is within your reach.
One Response
Thank you so much I have been struggling with consistency for quite a while now and I just needed help with that. I want to be successful but i have noticed that im not consistent enough to reach my goals. Like there has been times where i grind out it out for a few months and just stop for few months. I know its ok to take a break for a little while but not for too long. I haven’t been able to get in an actual good rhythm since before quarantine. Not being consistent just really frustrates me. Again thank you very much I will definitely take these words in mind, and plan to work my ass off to reach my goals and also to stay consistent.