In my September 2011 column, I shared seven ways to motivate your clients beyond just physical results. I wanted to revisit the topic because at some point, being the motivator that our clients depend on day-in and day-out can be outright exhausting. Staying creative and finding new ways to motivate clients can be a challenge.
The bottom line is that motivation feeds on motivation. When we feel personally fulfilled and motivated it's easier for us to motivate others and it will come across as more genuine. So, just as important as it is to come up with new ways to motivate others, I think it's as important to share ways we can keep ourselves motivated. Here are six simple self-motivation tips:
1. Make a checklist of those things that give you a "rush" of excitement
It may be simple actions of doing something you that excites you extra boost of energy. For me, sending out an email newsletter where I'm sharing information that I know will empower my clients gives me motivation. It may be taking a friend or client for a coffee or committing 30 minutes a day to reading a book.
2. Take time-off
Just as our bodies need rest and recovery to work at their prime, so do our minds. Doesn't have to be a grand vacation, but just a day committed to you or to be solely with your family can put you back in a motivating mindset when you return.
3. Attend a conference, webinar or join a mastermind group
Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can be incredibly motivating. If you're not able to get to a conference, look for webinars or teleseminars you can participate in. Joining a mastermind group is another great way to be around other motivated individuals and keep you accountable to your goals.
4. Workout
Sounds simple enough, right? But I know sometimes fitness professionals often are so exhausted from training that they don't have the energy to train themselves. Commit time to your own training and through that you will find motivation for your clients.
5. Focus on gratitude
It's proven that people who focus on gratitude are happier, more productive individuals. Take time each day to remind yourself of three things for which you are grateful.
6. Celebrate a success
Most of us are goal-driven individuals, which typically means our eyes never leave our ultimate goal. On the path to achieving those large goals, however, we must stop and celebrate the small successes so that we can have the endurance to fulfill the ultimate goal we set out to achieve.
I challenge you to commit to at least one method of self-motivation daily. When you are personally motivated, motivating others will be easier, more genuine and more fulfilling.
The bottom line is that motivation feeds on motivation. When we feel personally fulfilled and motivated it's easier for us to motivate others and it will come across as more genuine. So, just as important as it is to come up with new ways to motivate others, I think it's as important to share ways we can keep ourselves motivated. Here are six simple self-motivation tips:
1. Make a checklist of those things that give you a "rush" of excitement
It may be simple actions of doing something you that excites you extra boost of energy. For me, sending out an email newsletter where I'm sharing information that I know will empower my clients gives me motivation. It may be taking a friend or client for a coffee or committing 30 minutes a day to reading a book.
2. Take time-off
Just as our bodies need rest and recovery to work at their prime, so do our minds. Doesn't have to be a grand vacation, but just a day committed to you or to be solely with your family can put you back in a motivating mindset when you return.
3. Attend a conference, webinar or join a mastermind group
Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can be incredibly motivating. If you're not able to get to a conference, look for webinars or teleseminars you can participate in. Joining a mastermind group is another great way to be around other motivated individuals and keep you accountable to your goals.
4. Workout
Sounds simple enough, right? But I know sometimes fitness professionals often are so exhausted from training that they don't have the energy to train themselves. Commit time to your own training and through that you will find motivation for your clients.
5. Focus on gratitude
It's proven that people who focus on gratitude are happier, more productive individuals. Take time each day to remind yourself of three things for which you are grateful.
6. Celebrate a success
Most of us are goal-driven individuals, which typically means our eyes never leave our ultimate goal. On the path to achieving those large goals, however, we must stop and celebrate the small successes so that we can have the endurance to fulfill the ultimate goal we set out to achieve.
I challenge you to commit to at least one method of self-motivation daily. When you are personally motivated, motivating others will be easier, more genuine and more fulfilling.
