Finding your Why for Your Fitness Journey?

The Importance of Your “Why”

Robbins, a renowned personal development coach, emphasises the power of purpose in achieving any goal. He states, “Reasons come first, answers come second.” This philosophy is particularly relevant in fitness. Without a clear, compelling reason, it’s challenging to stay committed, especially when the going gets tough.

CrossFit, a high-intensity fitness program, also underscores the importance of finding your why. CrossFit isn’t just about physical transformation; it’s about building a supportive community, fostering mental resilience, and improving overall well-being. The shared goal within the CrossFit community is to live a healthier, more fulfilling life, which is a powerful why that keeps members motivated.

How to Discover Your Why

1. Reflect on Your Motivations Begin by asking yourself what you hope to achieve through fitness. Is it to improve your health, boost your confidence, reduce stress, or increase your energy levels? Perhaps you want to set a positive example for your children or prepare for a specific event. Take time to reflect deeply on what truly matters to you.
2. Visualise Your Future Imagine the future you want to create. How does fitness play a role in that vision? Visualising your desired outcome can make your goals feel more tangible and motivate you to take consistent action. Picture yourself not just in terms of physical appearance but also in terms of how you feel, move, and interact with the world.
3. Identify Emotional Drivers Emotional drivers are powerful motivators. Think about the emotions you want to cultivate through fitness, such as happiness, pride, or peace. Conversely, consider the negative emotions you want to overcome, like frustration, anxiety, or self-doubt. Recognising these emotional triggers can provide a deeper connection to your why.
4. Set Meaningful Goals Goals give your why a concrete form. Ensure your goals are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Instead of vague goals like “I want to lose weight,” aim for “I want to lose 10 pounds in three months to feel more energetic and confident.”

Practical Steps to Stay Motivated

1. Create a Vision Board A vision board is a powerful tool to keep your why front and centre. Include images, quotes, and symbols that represent your fitness goals and motivations. Place it somewhere you see daily to remind yourself of your purpose.
2. Journal Your Journey Keep a fitness journal to track your progress, challenges, and achievements. Writing about your experiences helps reinforce your commitment and allows you to reflect on how far you’ve come. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small, to maintain a positive mindset.
3. Find a Support System Surround yourself with supportive people who understand and encourage your goals. This could be friends, family, or a fitness community like CrossFit. Sharing your journey with others provides accountability and makes the process more enjoyable.
4. Embrace the Process Focus on the process rather than just the outcome. Enjoy the journey of becoming fitter, stronger, and healthier. Celebrate small milestones and appreciate the progress you’re making. This mindset shift can make your fitness routine feel less like a chore and more like a rewarding part of your life.
5. Practice Mindfulness Incorporate mindfulness into your fitness routine. Pay attention to how your body feels during workouts, your breathing, and your thoughts. Mindfulness can enhance your connection to your body and improve your overall experience.

Exercises to Align with Your Why

1. Goal-Setting Exercise Take 30 minutes to write down your long-term fitness goals and break them into smaller, manageable steps. This exercise helps you see the big picture and create an actionable plan.
2. Visualisation Exercise Spend 10 minutes daily visualising your success. Close your eyes and imagine achieving your fitness goals. Feel the emotions associated with your achievements. This exercise can boost your motivation and keep your why vivid.
3. Mindfulness Workout During your next workout, practice mindfulness by focusing on each movement, your breath, and how your body feels. This exercise helps you stay present and fully engage with your training.

Conclusion

Finding your why is the cornerstone of a successful fitness journey. It transforms your approach from merely completing workouts to embarking on a purposeful and fulfilling path. By understanding your motivations, setting meaningful goals, and staying connected to your why, you can achieve lasting fitness success. Remember, your why is the driving force that will keep you moving forward, even when challenges arise. Embrace it, nurture it, and let it guide you towards a healthier, happier life.

Coach Leigh