Motivation stems from having a goal. Once you uncover your personal motivator, you'll find that motivation flows quickly your way. Take a minute to really uncover the reason that you want to lose the weight. Don't say someting vague like you want to be thinnner or look more attractive. Dig deeper- ther is a specific motivator in your life, you simply need to uncover it. (Photo: Jimmy Mackey)

Are you struggling with self-motivation? Having a hard time getting yourself to your regularly scheduled workouts? Finding more and more reasons to cheat on your healthy diet?

You're not alone, and today I've got just the four self-motivating mind tricks that you need to lock onto your goals. A healthy dose of motivation coupled with determination will get you almost anything in life. So how do you know if you're genuinely motivated?

o Motivation will tell you to get out of bed for an early workout.
o Motivation will nag you to put down the donut.
o Motivation makes passing on French fries a reflex.
o Motivation makes a sweat-drenched workout exciting.
o Motivation constantly reminds you why you do what you do.

Self-motivating mind trick #1: Pinpoint your motivator
Motivation stems from having a goal. What is your goal? Why do you want to get into great shape? Once you uncover your personal motivator, you'll find that motivation flows quickly your way.

Take a minute to really uncover the reason that you want to lose the weight. Don't say something vague like you want to be thinner or look more attractive. Dig deeper -- there is a very specific motivator in your life, you simply need to uncover it.

The following are possible motivators.

o I want to have more energy to keep up with the kids.
o I want to improve my health through weight loss to extend and improve my life.
o I want to lose 15 pounds before my vacation.
o I want to restore my confidence to wear sleeveless shirts.
o I want to regain my figure to impress and attract my significant other.

Self-motivating mind trick #2: Make it official
When you write something down, it suddenly feels official, doesn't it? Write down your motivator for getting into great shape, and post it where you will see it often-- next to your alarm clock, on the bathroom mirror or in your car. Each time you see your written motivator take a moment to visualize yourself accomplishing your goal. Try to make the scene as clear in your mind as possible. This is a powerful tool for maintaining your focus and direction.

Self-motivating mind trick #3: Be practical
It's game plan time. You know what you want, and now you need to map out exactly how you'll achieve it. It is important to be practical in your planning, rather than throwing out ideas that you know you won't stick with.

With any weight loss goal it is important to maintain a healthy low-calorie diet and participate in a consistent and challenging exercise program. Plan a routine that will fit into your schedule, and you'll be more likely to stick with it. Also choose an exercise program that you enjoy -- don't force yourself to jog every day if you hate jogging.

Self-motivating mind trick #4: Call for backup
Enlist the support of your friends, family and co-workers. Tell everyone about your goal to lose weight and get fit -- you'll be surprised how supportive most people will be. By being open about your goals you'll likely be an encouragement to others to make healthy changes in their own lives.

The most effective way to ensure that you meet your goal is to enlist my support as your personal trainer. Together we will identify what really motivates you. Together we will design a workout routine that fits into your schedule and into your life. And together we will see it through until your goal is met. Call or email me today to get started on the program that will transform your life.

o Jimmy Mackey, founder of Macfit360, is a National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) certified master trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, certified weight loss specialist and corrective exercise specialist. He also has TRX STC/GSTC and Training For Warriors levels one and two certifications. He can be contacted at info@macfit360.com or telephone 698-2119.

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