Motivation

"People often say that motivation doesn't last.  Well, neither does bathing - that's why we recommend it daily." - Zig Ziglar

When people hear my story, the first question is inevitably, "How did you do it?"  But, that's not what people really want to know.  They want to know how I kept at it without quitting.  I'll delve more deeply into many of the pitfalls and pratfalls I've suffered along the way, and how I moved beyond them, in other posts.  For today, I'll say that one of the important things I've learned in my quest to lose 140 pounds, which I began 5 years ago this month, is that one needs motivation.  Such a small word for such a vital thing, isn't it?  It's fairy glamour - it's a wisp of golden smoke, at times impossible to perceive, let alone to grasp.  But I have to have it, or I toil in vain.  Period.  I've gained and lost motivation 1000 times over the last 60 months.  But it's what I work hardest for.  With it comes the attainment of my goals.  Without it, I can hold onto the accomplishments of the past, but I don't move forward, I don't accomplish the all-important MORE.

I've also learned that what motivates me can change every day - sometimes every moment.  Am I capricious?  Am I fickle?  I don't see myself that way, but... here's what happened today. 

It's officially spring where I am.  I went out this morning at 5:45 to hit the gym and I could FEEL it - the temperature was a modest 50 degrees, and the air was calm and still.  The sun had begun its ascent and dawn was approaching - earlier than it has in months.  Again I felt it more than saw it.  And I suddenly had a new goal.  With spring comes sleeveless apparel.  So, in the quest for what I call 'tank-top arms' I decided that I need to do some push-ups and set out to do 100 today before I sleep.  I've done two sets of 25 push-ups so  far as I write this; I'm half-way there.  What will motivate me tomorrow?  I'll let you know as soon as I do.

What motivates you?  Whatever it may be, catch it and hold it for as long as you can, because while you have it in you, you have work to do.  Isn't that divine?  When it dissipates - and it will - hunt for the next patch of glamour, and you will know how to proceed.  Just a little advice to you from me.  Make it a great day.