{"id":142803,"date":"2022-02-23T09:40:35","date_gmt":"2022-02-23T09:40:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.regenesys.net\/reginsights\/?p=142803"},"modified":"2024-06-22T14:04:06","modified_gmt":"2024-06-22T08:34:06","slug":"motivation-and-activation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.regenesys.net\/reginsights\/motivation-and-activation","title":{"rendered":"Motivation and Activation"},"content":{"rendered":"

The new year is now well underway. We all had a lovely holiday and returned relaxed and refreshed. We set ambitious goals for the new year, focused on achieving them. It’s February \u2013 dare it be asked how many of you are still working towards those resolutions?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

According to a study completed by the University of Scranton, only 8% of people who set resolutions, will achieve them\u2026 If you are part of the 8%, well done, you are a superstar! If you are not, let us see what we can do about it.<\/span><\/p>\n

Motivation to live a healthier lifestyle is both extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic motivation refers to the ‘carrot-stick’ type of motivation: I exercise because I want to look good. Intrinsic motivation is motivation from within \u2013 I exercise because it is my way to release tension. For long-term wellness purposes, intrinsic motivation has proven to be more effective. Therefore, remind yourself what you are working towards \u2013 health is the key to your future, and you deserve to be healthy.<\/span><\/p>\n

The University of Scranton\u2019s research further highlighted commonalities within the 8% who achieved their resolutions. Maybe you could analyse and review your January attempts to ensure that you become a part of the 8%. Let us look at these commonalities.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Start with specific micro-goals<\/b><\/p>\n

Revisit your goals and evaluate the action that you need to implement. If you want to lose 25kg throughout the year, what are the measurables for this goal? Is there a weekly target \u2013 like losing 500g per week or a monthly target \u2013 2.5kg a month? This chunk seems more achievable than 25kg, right? Break down your yearly goals into smaller targets and you might find that the smaller target is more motivating.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Set resolutions for the right reasons<\/b><\/p>\n

Resolutions are personal. This means that what you wish to achieve should link to your deepest purpose and wishes for yourself. Perhaps, in finding the purpose or reason for your resolutions, you should implement the \u20185-why\u2019 activity. Ask yourself \u2018why\u2019, and after each answer, ask \u2018why\u2019 again (five times). For example:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Resolution: I want to live a healthier life.<\/span><\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Why? \u2013 Because I am overweight and unfit.<\/span><\/li>\n
  2. Why? \u2013 Because I eat too much junk food and don\u2019t exercise.<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. Why? \u2013 Because I don\u2019t have time to cook or exercise.<\/span><\/li>\n
  4. Why? \u2013 Because I have too many other things going on.<\/span><\/li>\n
  5. Why? \u2013 Because I always put other people first which means I neglect my health and wellbeing.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Does the initial resolution fit with the reasons you came up with? If not, review the resolution so that you put yourself in a position to achieve it.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Document your progress<\/b><\/p>\n

    Write down your goals and the targets for each goal. Evaluate your time and revisit your targets weekly\/monthly (pending the time frames of your targets). Write down your successes and challenges \u2013 really be honest with yourself. Write down why you think you failed and adjust your goals and targets accordingly.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

    Practice patience and forgiveness<\/b><\/p>\n

    There is no need to be too hard on yourself if you were met with obstacles on your journey. Face them, resolve them and keep moving forward. Forgive yourself and be patient \u2013 Rome was not built in a day.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Schedule in time to achieve goals<\/b><\/p>\n

    Time is precious and you will always find an excuse not to do something. You must MAKE time for your goals. If you resolve to complete your research this year, you must make time for it each day. Get up an hour earlier to work on your research each day (it\u2019s going to be difficult for one month before it becomes routine).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

    Embrace the buddy system<\/b><\/p>\n

    Trying to achieve a goal in solitude is never advisable. Ask a trusted friend, colleague, family member to assist or hold you accountable. Share your goals, targets, challenges, and successes. If you wish to become more active, get someone to join you, even if it is once a week, so that they can witness your progress and help you through challenges.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Consider your budget<\/b><\/p>\n

    Finances must always be considered. You can be motivated and have beautiful goals and targets but if you do not have a budget fit for purpose, you will not succeed. If you want to explore the country by going on a road trip every third month, plan the trip according to your finances. Find activities within your immediate environment that you can explore (and join for free even) and save for that extended trip you have always dreamed of.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Slow down and meditate<\/b><\/p>\n

    Take a few deep breaths and clear your mind. Focus on your purpose and what you are currently doing right. Evaluate the changes you wish to make to improve on your resolutions and find solutions to make it happen!<\/span><\/p>\n

    Reward yourself for achievements<\/b><\/p>\n

    The achievement of resolutions is not easy \u2013 hard work, dedication and focus are required every day. Set up a reward system linked to your targets and reward yourself. For example: if you wish to lose 5kg a month and you achieve it, reward yourself with a cheat meal (your favourite junk food, or a slice of cake, or whatever you wish to indulge in).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

    You deserve to achieve what you set out to achieve. Commit yourself \u2013 you will not be the only beneficiary.<\/span><\/p>\n

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