As we head into 2023 and set our goals for a healthier new year, we all know within a few months those well-thought-out plans may not get the continuous attention they need to reach our goals. You may need some support to remove and move through the obstacles to your fitness goals.
If you’ve ever struggled to keep up a diet or fitness routine for more than a few weeks, you already know that staying motivated and having mental strength can be the hardest part of sticking with it.
Trust me, I get it! When I was a teenager, everyone said girls needed to be skinny to be happy, but even though I was thin, I was miserable. When I discovered strength training in my 20s, I realized that feeling strong and capable is what actually made me feel great.
But then I got pregnant with my first baby and my body changed drastically. I was so worried I’d never feel strong or fit as I had been – it was completely new territory for me.
Many years and two beautiful kids later, and I’m now stronger, fitter, and healthier than ever. I know my body can handle any challenge and transformation life throws at it, and I want other women to know they can too!
The right mindset is so important to reach your goals.
Emily Skye Fitness in three different poses wearing red workout gear
So here are 5 tips to keep in mind as your set out in 2023.
Don’t let these five mental challenges and obstacles to your fitness goals hold you back.
- Dwelling on Negatives and Mistakes
Replaying embarrassing or negative things in your head, over-analysing every situation and focusing on things you do wrong (instead of right), it’s NOT helpful. This toxic behavior will hold you back and will stop you from achieving happiness and success.
So I beg you: Let go of the past, focus on the future and start envisioning everything you want and CAN achieve. When you feel that negative thought spiral starting, cut it off straight away.
- Not Believing you Can Do It
You’re only as successful as you believe you can be. However, you’re worthy and capable of ANYTHING – you’ve just got to believe in yourself. As soon as I stopped doubting myself and allowed myself to get uncomfortable, I started achieving my goals and turning dreams into reality. It takes work and practice, but you’ve got to look at what you’ve got and how that can help you move forward. It’s time to call out your inner critic, stop comparing yourself to others and embrace the fear. I promise, you are worth it.
Believe in yourself!
- Not Rewarding Yourself
Maybe you think you need the ‘tough love’ approach to get things done, or you punish yourself for slip-ups. Instead, reward yourself for the things you do right. Smashed a week of workouts? Get a facial! Meal prepped like a champ? Spend a bit of that extra time catching up on your fave TV series or read a book instead. - Thinking you don’t Deserve it
Firstly, you do! And if you need people to remind you, let my Facebook community support and encourage you. It’s made up of strong, loyal and inspiring members.
Self-worth is so important to both your mental health and your ability to achieve great things.
Honestly, self-confidence and motivation go hand in hand. As soon as you believe in yourself, you’re gonna smash every workout and reach your fitness goals – which will have its own extra positive effect.
