Why Motivation Isn't Enough

Does this sound familiar: You are excitedly make a commitment to take charge of your health. You purchase the equipment, the clothing, and the membership. You're all-in for 2 weeks but then you gradually stop showing up.

You feel like you've failed and vow to return to your routine when your motivation comes back. This cycle continues. It's safe to say we've all experienced this. Here's why motivation alone isn't enough and how to break the cycle.

Discipline is the ability to do what needs to be done regardless of how you feel, allowing you to build habits and stay on track even when you lack the desire or inspiration to act. Motivation is a temporary feeling, while discipline is a controllable practice that builds stronger neural pathways in the brain for goal achievement. Discipline is better than motivation because it is a consistent and reliable driver of long-term success, while motivation is fleeting and inconsistent.

Why discipline is more effective than motivation

• Consistency over inconsistency:

  Motivation can be up and down, causing changes in how well you perform. On the other hand, discipline keeps your performance more consistent, which is key to achieving your long-term goals. 

  
  

• Control over feelings:

  Motivation can be a fleeting feeling, influenced by things around you. On the other hand, discipline is a choice you make and a skill you can build, offering a steady path to achieving your goals.

  
  

• Habit formation:

  Discipline helps you build routines that turn tasks into effortless habits. While motivation can kickstart your journey, it's discipline that keeps you moving forward.

  
  

• Long-term success:

  Discipline provides the strength to navigate challenges that arise on any long journey. It’s the reliable support that helps you keep moving when motivation inevitably fades. 

The role of both

• Motivation gets you started, discipline keeps you going:

  Motivation is a great spark, but it's discipline that keeps you on track when the excitement fades.

  
  

• Motivation and discipline complement one another:

  People who have attained their fitness goals often mix discipline with enjoyment to create good habits. For example, if you choose a workout you love and stick to a routine, you'll likely find motivation in seeing your fitness improve.

Discipline and progress

• Track your progress:

  Keep a journal or use a fitness app to record your workouts. Seeing your accomplishments can boost your motivation. 

• Mix up your routine:

  Try different types of exercise to prevent boredom and challenge yourself in new ways. 

• Find a workout buddy:

  Exercising with a friend or joining a group can increase accountability and camaraderie. 

• Set meaningful goals:

  Focus on goals that are important to you, whether it's having more energy to play with your kids or long-term health benefits. 

• Celebrate milestones:

  Reward yourself when you reach a goal to reinforce your commitment. 

Adjust and overcome setbacks

• Prioritize consistency over perfection:

  If you miss a workout, don't be hard on yourself. Pick up where you left off and resist the urge to wait for motivation to return.

• Start small:

  Begin with an easily attainable goal, like two 10-minute workouts a week. This will set you up for success, build momentum, and will prevent burn out.

• Break it up:

  If you're short on time, split your workout into smaller, more manageable sessions throughout the day. This will help you to avoid an all or nothing mindset when you're busy.

Motivation is an excellent tool to help you start, but relying solely on a feeling is not enough to reach your long-term fitness goals. Hopefully, this post helps you understand that you have not failed; you just need a more realistic and effective strategy.