If you're really going to stay motivated, the first thing you need to do is determine what actually motivates you, says Anne Dranitsaris, Ph.D., author of Who Are You Meant to Be? For example, if you are inspired by your family, focus on how exercising will help you remain in your kids lives well into your old age, she says. Take it one step further by getting your family involved—play tag with the kids, hit the gym with your husband, cook healthy meals for the coming week together on weekends.
"In order to change your patterns of behavior, you first have to recognize your patterns and why they exist. If you can redirect that motivation into a new action, your goal will automatically seem more compelling and achievable."
