“By Brodins Lats!”
-r/SWOLEACCEPTANCE
[Spoiler alert: I actually started this challenge two weeks ago, but I’m just posting about it now. I wanted to let you know, in case you actually thought I was tired of exercise two days into my routine.]
In order to not get burnt out from lifting, I’ve begun to develop some habits that make my workout more enjoyable.
After every session at the gym I like to look at a particular photograph from back when I was a super dweeb (read: braces, bowl cut hair, skinny-fat, sloppy attire) and then spend a few minutes flexing and checking myself out. Immodest narcissistic bragging? You bet. Warranted? You bet. I’ve put a lot of work into getting in shape and eating healthy, I deserve to show off a little.
Another trick that I’ve employed, is to read from an Inspirational book
To stay focused beforehand, I’ve been avoiding the internet until after I’ve met all my daily goals (exercise and otherwise). Only being able to go online once I’m finished with work is also a huge motivator for me to stop procrastinating and get the job done.
I’ve also started watching a different sports movie every Wednesday. Doing so helps to remind me that if I suck at something now, the reward of mastery will only be that much greater (seriously, think about how boring Rocky would be if Sylvester Stallone had started out awesome and won without ever having to train or exert himself).
Lastly, I’ve subscribed to r/SWOLEACCEPTANCE both for laughs and to be inspired by the dudes posting their stories.
I’ve found that by implementing each of these slight changes into my life, my focus and ambition have remained strong and my want for achievement has increased dramatically. In fact, I’ve even found myself headed to the gym on my “free days” and putting in extra effort with my workouts, all because of how strong my pursuit for success has become.
Stay tuned for my next post, I think you’ll get a lot out of it…