Finding It Difficult
 

I've been walking every day, for about three weeks, for at least 30 mins and my enthusiasm has been great until yesterday. I had a bad day both at home and work yesterday and felt very stressed. It's made me feel lethargic and although I will keep walking, I want to feel that enthusiasm that I had before :(

Is this normal to have times when the enthusiasm just dips down low. I'm scared I wont get it back again.

Oh yes. My enthusiasm definitely dips some days. Thankfully, even though I have to make myself get out there, I'm almost always glad I did. It's relaxing and rejuvenating ... most times.

My enthusiasm dips sometimes too. I usually work out in the mornings (6am), and there are mornings that I just don't feel like getting up. What helps a bit is that I don't work out EVERY day. I aim for 4/5 weekdays and 1/2 weekend days. That way, my body gets a day of rest here and there, plus I get "days off" to look forward to. From past experience (since my ticker isn't showing tons of change yet!), it also helps when you lose a few pounds or notice something feeling looser - that always jumpstarts my enthusiasm.

I've been experiencing the lack of enthusiasm a lot this week. It's been an exceptionally stressful week at work and the weather here has been so very gloomy. It's kind of dreadful. And by the end of the day I just want to go home and relax. But I'm happy to say I stop at the gym first. It's just something I now know I need to do. For the sake of ... me. So, don't worry darling, you're not the only one experiencing such bouts of downness. Just pick yourself back up and keep on keeping on! You can do it!

It's very natural to go through phases like that. Enthusiasm goes in cycles like anything else. There are times when you just have to make yourself do it because of your commitment, not because you want to do it. That's what makes the difference between success and failure -- the willingness to do what we need to do even when we'd rather not.

I really wanted to keep my passion and enthusiasm for as long as possible, and I have, but it wavers at times. This week, for example, I'm REALLY tired (I think it's just because of my TOM). Even though I had cramps last night, I did two classes at the gym back to back and worked my butt off. I wouldn't say I WANTED to, exactly, but when I did it I was glad I did.

One thing that has really worked for me is finding the activity that I really do have passion for, which is running. You may find that you want to try different forms of exercise until you find one that you absolutely love, and then you won't feel like you're forcing yourself to do it on those tough days. But we'll always have tough days, unfortunately -- such is life. Luckily we have a place to talk about it, here at 3FC! :)

I think, just like everything else in life, some days are good days and some days are rough. I just do my best on the rough days. My best will vary, and that's okay. :)

I only have to say.....
 

Oh yeah. Enthusiasim peaks and wanes. Unfortunately. Somedays it seems as if there's no stopping me - I can't wait to get out there and I can go on and on. And then other times - sheesh, I just can't seem to get myself MOVING. And those times scare me, cause then I start thinking will I ever get all gung ho again. And luckily I do. Sometimes it could just be later in the very same day.

I agree though, you should find different things to do, keep switching it up a bit. Try and keep it as intresting as possible. Also, sometimes I tell myelf I'll just give it 5 minutes, and then I'll do the 5 and then I tell myself all right another 5 and before you know it - IT'S DONE!!!

One can't count on enthusiasm or motivation always being there. That's when commitment comes in. Commitment is what says "I'm going to do it anyway"--even if that means crawling down the street. ;)

Jay

Thanks for your replies :)

It's been a rough week. I'm hoping next week will be better. This place is so great, the support is fantastic and I really appreciate it :)