Have you ever felt that rush of excitement when you start a new workout routine? That’s motivation. Now, have you ever felt that dragging feeling of not wanting to hit the gym, but you went anyway? That’s discipline. Let’s talk about why, when it comes to consistency in working out, discipline almost always beats motivation.
1. Motivation is a Feeling, Discipline is a Choice.
We all know feelings are fickle. One day you might be pumped to do an hour-long workout, and the next, you can’t even muster the energy to put on your sneakers. Relying on motivation alone is like depending on the weather – unpredictable. Discipline, however, is a conscious choice. It means deciding to work out even when you don’t “feel” like it.
2. Discipline Builds Habits; Motivation Doesn’t.
When you consistently push through the times when you’re not motivated, you’re building a habit. Habits, once established, become second nature. Think about brushing your teeth; you don’t need to be motivated to do it, right? You just do it out of habit. That’s the power of discipline. Over time, you might just find yourself working out without even thinking about it!
3. Motivation is External; Discipline is Internal.
Often, motivation comes from external sources: a looming beach vacation, a friend’s wedding, or a new year’s resolution. These external motivators might push you for a while, but what happens when they’re gone? Discipline, on the other hand, is an internal force. It’s a commitment you make to yourself. It’s more enduring because it’s not tied to external events or circumstances.
4. Discipline Leads to Results.
Let’s be real. If you only worked out when you felt motivated, how often would that be? Once a week? Maybe twice on a good week? But if you’re disciplined and stick to a routine, you’ll see progress, which in turn, can spark its own form of motivation. It’s a positive feedback loop!
5. Discipline Prepares You for Life’s Ups and Downs.
Life isn’t always smooth sailing. There will be days when everything seems to be working against your workout routine: unexpected work, family emergencies, or just a bad day. If you’re always waiting for the perfect conditions (a.k.a. motivation), you’ll find an excuse to skip. But if you have discipline? You’ll work out despite the challenges.
Discipline Beats Motivation: The Takeaway
It’s great to feel motivated. There’s nothing like that burst of energy and enthusiasm. But remember, motivation is fleeting. It’s the spark, not the fuel. For the long haul, for real, consistent results, discipline is your best friend.
Next time you’re feeling low on motivation and considering skipping that workout, remind yourself of the choice you have. Choose discipline, and you’ll be choosing a path to consistent progress and better health.
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