Visualization

Maybe the headliner for a list of “Things everyone knows but doesn’t do.”

This does NOT get enough attention.  No, I'm not referring to success.  Yes, that is important and should always be part of your big picture.  I'm talking about visualizing failure.  If you’re someone who can reach every goal they make with relentless forward movement every single day, then…I would really love to see those goals.  Obstacles will come.  None more powerful than lack of energy, lack of sleep, not seeing results, more fun options that grab your attention, you name it.  You will not repeatedly overcome those obstacles unless you visualize them when you’re making your goals right at the start.  

If you’re like me, going to the gym does not come easy.  Being a trainer and physical therapist is a huge help I'll admit.  I’m in the gym all the time.  My hobbies circle around health and wellness so I'm exposed to this like a chef in a kitchen.  But when work is done and it’s just me at the end of the day I can assure you I'm just as excited to workout as you are…as in not.  But this isn’t a surprise to me.  It’s expected and planned for.  I know the work has to get done and I know sometimes I need a spark to get me excited to workout:  Disturbed, Metallica, energy drinks, youtube clips, inviting a friend over to join me…at least one of those will get used every time I need motivation.  But I have that list.  I know what works for me.  If I felt exhausted or defeated and then tried to brainstorm how to get me out of it I’m not going to be successful.  I can consult an actual list (weird, I know) I made when feeling energetic.  It’s much easier when I don’t have to think about it.  What do you like doing when you’re energetic?  Pull from that thought and you’ve already started your own list.  

Going up a flight of stairs is quicker when you don’t take any steps back.  Always work smarter.  

What gets you motivated?