Conquering Procrastination
Are you still procrastinating about that fitness routine you swore in as a New Year’s Resolution all those years ago? You know, the one you’ve been continuously putting off?
Does this sound familiar?
‘I’ll go after this video.. Just one more post…’. You promised yourself you’d be heading to the gym today. You’ve been saying the same thing consecutively for sometime now.
Studies show that the same resolutions tend to be repeated every year.
In essence, you’re too absorbed siphoning through your social media accounts, vicariously living through the lives of influencers - hours pass and you can’t be fucked heading out. It feels like Groundhog day, yet we’re all victims of it at some point.
You’re definitely not alone!
Failure to stay true to your newly declared health and fitness goals is fairly common practice, and it happens to the best of us. There is a reason behind this; we have a tendency towards self-delusion. For example, thinking that changes will miraculously manifest in the new year, by placing our goals in the distance, hoping we’ll get around to them. Sure enough, for most of us, we never do.
How Do We Define Procrastination?
Essentially, procrastination can be thought of as an individual's voluntary delay or postponement of an intended task or action, because they are simply not bothered, regardless of the consequences.
Moreover, Joel Anderson adds that "procrastination must also meet a requirement of a guilty mind", whereby an individual may to some extent, be struggling with the "irrationality of their delay."
Here are our strategies for combating procrastination to help you reach your fitness goals.
Set Realistic Goals and Objectives
The main issue is setting large, vague goals that are more like a distant affirmation instead of a tangible result. Do not set yourself up to fail; instead, focus on implementing realistic expectations, driven by progress and process. - Yes, ultimately you want to achieve your goals, but how you get there is the real question.
The trick is to not constantly think about the outcome or results. Do not overwhelm yourself! It's best to focus on the process and the steps that are within reach.
Any goal is achievable, as long as you can break it down into simple steps.
Ideally, you should minimise the obscurity and magnitude the end goal puts on your motivation, by making it more manageable and achievable.
Yes, there will be moments where you’ll encounter obstacles and barriers. This is all part of the learning experience.
Note, do not solely focus on achieving the end goal. Instead, turn your attention to the process and procedure. Break down tasks into more manageable pieces and concentrate on doing one thing at a time.
Master it, and move on!
Establish the Right Mindset
Change cannot occur unless the individual wants it to happen!
Contemplating change is one thing where you consider altering your lifestyle. However, ‘TAKING ACTION’ is the key factor here, the individual must want a lifestyle change by acting on it.
Be sure to weigh out the benefits and reasons why you want the change to occur. Write it down if you have to, that way, you can always refer to it.
It’s well known that regular exercise offers many health benefits, especially in the reduction of chronic diseases, with the likes of diabetes, stroke, heart disease and certain forms of cancer.
Reminding yourself why you made a lifestyle change can help you stay motivated.
Find What You Like Doing (It Doesn’t Matter What You Do)
Look for activities that interest you, either on an individual or group level. It doesn’t mean you have to sign up for an expensive gym membership. There are many more options available that won’t put you out of pocket. It could be as simple as taking a walk around the neighbourhood; doing bodyweight exercises; or taking up jogging.
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, try getting outdoors, (Yes, Nature! If that’s your thing) kayaking, hiking, or swimming. However, if you want the added social benefit while chasing your fitness goals, why not join a local sporting club or fitness group. Being part of a new social circle with common interests can boost your motivation while meeting new people.
At the end of the day, finding a form of physical activity that you can incorporate into your life will boost your cardiovascular potential and put you well on your way to a healthier life.
Just start doing something! Anything!
Manage Your Time
Conquering procrastination is achieved by better managing your time. More often than not, people fail to fulfil their resolutions due to poor time management skills, eventually losing their zest for it.
Poor time management can have a compounding effect on our lifestyles, such as increased stress, relationship issues, followed by irrational health choices.
Prioritising tasks correctly and effectively, will help you allocate your time more efficiently and better manage your day.
If tech is your thing, then there are many applications available to download to help you get started. Alternatively, some people still prefer going old school – write that shit down if you must!
Because our phones have become such an intrinsic part of our lives, I personally believe the main advantage of using an application is the availability of set reminders and alarms. In addition to email integration and calendar notifications.
Therefore, you have no excuse for staying on track!
Stay Consistent
Remember, you’re on a journey towards your goal. Take it one step at a time. The process will inevitably guide you to where you need to be at that point in time. Don’t rush!
The sad reality is that most people end up slamming the door on their goals as soon as things get difficult, even before they get the opportunity to experience the slightest bit of accomplishment.
Social media is saturated with false illogical notions of achieving a dream physique, within a very short timeframe. This false sense of reality often plays a part in an individual’s demise. Achieving your goals takes time, discipline, hard work, and above all, consistency.
Have faith in the process and you’ll succeed.
Enjoy It
There is no point trying to take up something you don’t enjoy. Don’t torture yourself, unless that’s something you’re into. (We’ll leave that for another article)
Find something you like doing and go with it. See where it takes you and have fun with it – you never know, you may just end up mastering it.
Find Gratitude Within and Stay True to Yourself
Lastly, it’s important to look within yourself and feel a sense of appreciation and gratitude for fulfilling your health and fitness goals.
At the end of the day, seeking a healthy lifestyle, is your decision alone. You’ve made the choice to improve your life by investing in your health and wellbeing.
Be grateful for what you have achieved and stay true to yourself!
