Every morning it is the same. I wage a mental war: enjoy a leisurely cup of Joe, or lace my running shoes to pound the pavement. Sometimes Joe wins, sometimes the running does.

Joe’s case is quite persuasive: check email, read my daily horoscope, review the writing job boards…SLURP!…I love Joe. He offers comfort, quiet and serenity.

The Running Option Is A Bit More Convoluted

It doesn’t matter that I have been running for years., my mental dialogue those first few miles is always the same: anguish. First step: “I hate running!” Two minutes in: Huff!, huff!, huff! “Good grief, this is hard!” Eight minutes in: Gasp! “Why am I doing this again……?” 12 minutes in: “Ugh! I miss my Joe!” 20 minutes in: “I have to stop!” Phew! “That was close, I nearly passed out!” Walk a minute. “Okay, try again” Pound, pound, pound. Silence.

Try To Forget

Until I give in to the rhythm of running, I fight!…and I fight hard! Running can be a bit like being pregnant. Your mind and body work together to help you forget the pain, so there is a next time. Sneaky! If I remembered the above scenario every morning I’d never have bought another pair of running shoes! Instead I remember the elation of finishing the run. The stamina I have developed. The positive outlook that sits on my shoulders while I meander through my day. These are the reasons that I often use my auto button on my coffee maker. Joe will be there. I’ll just have more reason to revel, post run.

The Worst Reason Ever

Most women exercise to lose weight or maintain their health. Eeeew! No wonder exercise is so hard. Starting out feeling negative about yourself already or doing something to reap the benefits of something so abstract. Ugh, the upheaval! Where’s the fun in that? I want to feel good! Laugh at myself! Learn a new trick! Something! Anything!…to indulge my larger than life outlook! Reframe your motivation. Exercise keeps me sane. It gives me “me time”. I think clearer after I work out! All of these are likely to keep me coming back for more, rather than watching the numbers on the scale.

Our Motivations Change

When I was going through the sleep deprived infant years with my children, my motivation to exercise waxed and waned. Middle of the night feedings left me cranky and tired during the day. Although, I knew I was a better mom when I exercised. As soon as my husband walked through the door, I begged to steal 30 minutes of “me” time. The endorphin release from running even if it was a quick trip around the block with the baby jogger, prompted patience and cheerfulness. I was refueled. Able to give more of myself.

Today, I practice yoga because it indulges my gentle side. Yoga respects my body. Spending an hour in a yoga class is an hour of meditation. Meditation equals peace of mind.

Recognize that what motivated you last year may not be what gets you up and moving this year, or even next month, or even tomorrow. People change. You change. Its okay.

Choose Yourself

Okay, let’s just say it, time. Time is not on our side, is it? Career obligations, family life, other interests, they all are pulling at us. Frankly, on the days when Joe wins, I find myself being preoccupied with thoughts of “When will I run again?” “ When is my next yoga class?” Joe doesn’t offer much in the mental clarity area does he?

Carving out time for yourself is hard. It can be laden with guilt. Dig deep, my friend. Choose you! Some days you may have to be (GASP!) selfish! This is not to say every day you will win. Relax! Be realistic! If you choose yourself three times in seven days, that is something to celebrate. Feeling bad about yourself because you did not exercise is the same as if you were exercising simply to lose weight! Negative energy! Who needs it! Rise above the temptation to wager a mental war of anguish.

Grab your Joe and go!

Photo by Cristiano Betta.