Working Out When You Lack the Motivation
If you’re depressed, apathetic, or have no motivation, one piece of advice you may have heard is to work out. There is truth to this advice. Working out can make the endorphins pump in your brain, making you feel great. However, many people who are depressed find this easier said than done, and it’s easy to understand why. When you’re depressed, it can be hard to get out of bed, let alone work out. How can you get exercise when you’re depressed or lack the motivation? Here are a few ways how.
But First
If you are severely depressed, we can’t stress that you should speak to a therapist. A therapist can help you with your depression and other problems in your life. Anything from relationship advice to other problems can be resolved, too. If you have trouble leaving the house, online counseling has made it much easier, too.
Start Small
One reason people are turned off from working out is because they believe they must go full-on beast mode. Meaning that they must work out until they’re in pain, and do the whole nine yards when it comes to working out. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. You can get a great work out by starting small. Make small goals like walking outside or spending 30 minutes in the gym. These habits can do a lot for you in the end.
Get Help from a Pro
If you’re struggling to work out, you may not have found the right workout regimen that is good for you. A personal trainer can help you if you are unsure what your workout plan should be. Many people turn to personal trainers to get the help they need, and some personal trainers have worked with people who are far more depressed or unmotivated.
Don’t Punish Yourself
One reason workouts or diets fail is because the people are overly critical should they feel. For example, if you end up eating bad, you may end up falling down a slippery slope. The same with not exercising. You may feel like if you missed a day or two, there is no hope for you. However, it happens. Being human isn’t something you should beat yourself over. Instead, look to the future and figure out how you can correct yourself.
Try Group Workouts
Sometimes, you need a group of people to work out with. Many people go to classes not just to learn, but to meet up with likeminded people who can motivate and inspire you. There are many ways you can go about doing this, from looking up classes near you to putting a help wanted ad out for an exercise group.
Don’t Do it Alone
This is similar to the last step, but it involves people who are closer to you. For example, your friends and family. If your friends have the time to work out, that would be great. As for your family, there are plenty of activities you can do that encourage exercise. For more information, click here or look here for some unique ideas.
You Can Do It!
Above all else, keep yourself motivated. Try looking into mindfulness techniques that help you discard any negative thoughts. Negativity can keep many people away from accomplishing their goals, but with a little bit of discipline, this can be fixed. If you feel like you’re always negative, we can’t stress the importance of seeking help. Sometimes, it’s valid to need help when all other options have failed. Get out there, get help, and get the blood pumping.