Feelings Follow Actions

How many times have you been invited to an event you really didn’t feel like attending – but it turned out to be a great time?

Exercise functions similarly.

It would be wonderful if we approached fitness from a place of excitement everyday – but that’s not reality. Some days we don’t feel like it, we’d rather stay in bed, or the million other reasons we come up with.

However, there’s a better strategy and it starts with behavior.

Motivation, desire, willpower – those are complicated emotions. Behaviors are concrete. That’s why it’s a lot harder to change our thoughts & feelings about something than it is to change behavior.

If you can change your behavior the thoughts, feelings & perceptions will follow.

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Feelings follow action

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Even as a trainer, I don’t wake up magically excited to work out every day. Some days it’s a matter of putting my shoes on and starting my warmup. Just doing it all before I think. On those days I always tell myself I can stop at any time if I still hate it.

You know what? 10 out of 10 times I finish the workout and I’m so happy when it’s over. The endorphin rush, the feeling of accomplishment, the pride in hard work – there’s no way you’ll regret that!

Next time you don’t want to do something, however minor, remind yourself that feelings follow action and just take the first step. Give yourself the best chance to succeed.

Grumpy? Force yourself to smile. Want to skip your workout? Put your exercise clothes on.

Give it a try!

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