Submitted Request..
This post is an answer to a submitted question. It aims to provide help and solutions to overcome the issue.
Podcast version: HERE
Quote: “Keep your mind fixed on what you want in life, not what you don't want." ~ Napoleon Hill
Adding to the quote:
To have a happy and meaningful life, it's about thinking about what we want instead of what we don't want. Feeding your mind and thoughts with what you want, and envisioning it, seeing yourself doing it, and being that type of person that does xyz. It's intrinsic, it's believing you are the type of person that does this thing, and it's what you value. It's important to you, and without thought, you just do it.
If there’s a belief that something externally will bring you something, fill a void, solve a problem, well that needs looked at first and foremost. Often this is the disconnect, thinking that working out and or getting a certain type of body will make you happy is searching externally for something to make you whole, this is all too common, and a huge misunderstanding of how happiness works.
There's only one difference between someone who is highly productive and follows through with what they say they will do, and the type of person who procrastinates and finds excuses not to take action: their thoughts.
Submitted Question
“How do you find motivation to exercise?
I have always hated working out and can never seem to develop that desire to do it. I’d like to get into lifting weights but whenever I go to the gym it’s just so boring and I feel like I’m not even doing the lifts right. Being you’re into fitness, what do you do for motivation?”
My Response if we were in a coaching setting. Although without being able to ask questions, I may assume or use scenarios to fill in the gaps.
It boils down to the stories we make up.
Just in this short submission I get probably only a small take on how you really think, feel and the plot to the story you're creating in the space of working out and the gym.
Emotions beat logic every single time.
If you're loading up in your mind, your thoughts and finding evidence and proof that your story is the gym is awful, you hate it, don't desire it, can't get into it, that it's boring, and that you can't do it right you won't stick to it, this story isn't sustainable in the action you say you are wanting to do. NO one will keep doing something anything at all long lasting if you think and feel this way.
We humans are rather simplistic we think, then feel, then do. Or do nothing.
It's not motivation that you need, it's changing your story.
White knuckling through anything in life isn't going to last.
You brain and mind are super duper simplistic.
Your brain will move your towards what feels good, and familiar.
Right now neither of these are being utilized.
If you truly deeply want to do something, you have to get your thoughts and feelings in alignment with what you desire, and the action becomes easy. If that's what you call motivation, then that's your answer. Is it easy? Well, it is if you frame it that way. If you frame it as hard, well, it will be hard, and you'll continue to struggle and take the path of finding a magic pill, potion, lotion, or wrap.
If you're constantly filling your mind with negative thoughts and searching for evidence to support the idea that going to the gym is terrible, that you despise it, and have no desire for it, then it's highly likely that you won't be able to fully commit to it. This negative mindset will only make the experience seem dull and uninteresting, and you'll convince yourself that you're incapable of doing it correctly. It's important to understand that with such a mindset, this story of yours will not lead to long-term success in achieving the actions and goals you desire.
Working out consistently is more mental than anything else.
Doing difficult tasks is important for personal growth and development. It can make you stronger and improve all areas of your life. When you decide to leave your comfort zone and face challenges, reflect on your success. You learn, grow, and are now working with your brain. Capitalizing on the simple paradigm that your brain runs off of, moving you towards what feels good and familiar. No motivation necessary, it's WHO you are, your identity.
Embracing the difficult tasks that come your way allows you to develop a sense of resilience, which is invaluable in navigating the ups and downs of life. It strengthens your ability to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to change, and overcome obstacles with determination and perseverance. In essence, by pushing yourself to take on the hard things, you are equipping yourself with the mental and emotional tools necessary to thrive in the face of adversity.
When you challenge yourself, you not only develop new skills and expand your knowledge but also enhance your confidence and self-belief.
Taking on the hard things also helps you gain a deeper understanding of your strengths and weaknesses. By pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone, you are forced to confront your limitations and discover untapped potential within yourself.
So, instead of shying away from the hard things, train your brain and mind to work for you, rather than against you. Remember, it is through the hard things that you will discover your true strength and unlock your full potential.
I hope this helps.
I wish you all the best.
Please share this with anyone you believe would benefit from the insights. Post a comment, I read and reply to them all. Thank you in advance!
If you want to send a question, please send to hello@katherine-hood.com please include:
- A coachable question (something that addresses what's in your control, your thoughts, feelings or actions.)
- And context, explain a situation in the past, currently going through, or worries/concerns of the future, giving me some details on your thoughts and feelings about it.