Nov 03 2024 27 mins
In today’s episode, I reflect on my journey with fitness and how my approach to motivation has shifted. We dive into the core of what first got me running — that need to connect with people and the challenge of running my first 5K. As someone who spends a lot of time working solo, running gave me a reason to be around others, which brought me a sense of joy and novelty.
As I look back, I've realised that the excitement of running wasn’t just about the finish line but also about how it made me feel. However, over time, my motivation has evolved. Life seasons change, and now walking, rather than running, feels more fulfilling. Walking has become my way to reconnect with nature, take photographs, and enjoy moments with family and friends — things that feel harder to do while running.
Why Re-evaluate Your Goals and Activities? In talking with podcast guests, I’ve found that sometimes achieving a goal weight or running pace doesn’t provide the feeling we expect. That’s why I’m asking myself: What do I genuinely want from my fitness journey right now? Instead of forcing a routine, I’m embracing walking as a way to move, connect, and unwind. This shift reminds me to question whether I’m staying active for myself or just because it’s what I’ve always done.
Walking has become a regular part of my routine because it feels accessible and enjoyable. I can listen to podcasts, explore new places, and even catch up with loved ones. Walking has also been a way to fit movement into my busy schedule without adding extra stress. It’s a reminder that sometimes, taking a break from our usual routine can actually bring us closer to our well-being goals.
Reflecting on Seasonal Motivation and Goals Our motivation can change with the seasons, and that’s okay. As the weather cools down, it’s normal to feel less inclined to go out for a run, and for me, that’s been an opportunity to focus on walking. Whether it’s due to changes in energy, interest, or environment, there’s no harm in taking time off from a fitness goal if it’s not serving you anymore. We’re not all meant to follow the same path, and adjusting to what feels right can lead to a more enjoyable, sustainable fitness journey.
Activity Tips for Staying Active Year-Round
- Grab Your Journal: Write down what movement makes you happiest. Whether it’s walking, dancing, or even exploring new workout classes, use this list to help you find motivation that comes from a place of joy.
- Embrace Seasonal Changes: Motivation naturally fluctuates, and adjusting to what feels right for you can make a huge difference. For me, switching to walking during the colder months has helped me stay active without the pressure of meeting a specific running goal.
- Enjoy the Process, Not Just the Goal: Remember, fitness doesn’t have to be about intense workouts. Moving more can be as simple as taking longer walks, exploring local parks, or dancing. It’s about finding ways to incorporate movement in a way that feels fun and fulfilling.
In this season of life, I’ve realised that moving is about enjoying each step, not pushing myself to a specific finish line. I hope this episode encourages you to embrace movement in whatever way feels best right now. Whether it’s walking, running, or trying something new, focus on what genuinely brings you joy and energy. Let’s walk, move, and enjoy where we are.
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