Things to think about.....

Charlie003

As an extrinsically motivated eater, you find it easier to eat healthier when surrounded by health conscious individuals. You've started to eat healthy based on the stern recommendation of your personal trainer or physician. You crave chocolate and candy but the guilt keeps you away. Since 1975, leisure researchers have agreed that perceived autonomy, the ability to control your actions, plays a major role in motivation. Take a proactive role in selecting the type of healthy foods you enjoy, as opposed to following a generic diet.

As an extrinsically motivated fitness enthusiast, your commitment is based on results. You may find yourself jumping from one exercise fad to another. You have the same New Year's resolution to get in shape year after year, but your trips to the gym are significantly reduced as the year progresses. Leisure researchers agree that intrinsic motivation is derived from gaining satisfaction in perfecting your skills or abilities. Commit to building a healthier body by increasing your muscular strength and endurance.

One of the biggest pitfalls can be the company you keep. The extrinsically motivated fitness enthusiast may run into trouble when surrounded by friends that fail to make fitness a priority. If you find it difficult to stick to a healthy diet while hanging out with friends, it may be necessary to reconnect with why you've chosen to make fitness a priority. Make a list of the top 10 reasons why moving toward a healthy lifestyle is necessary, and share this list with your friends so they can understand and perhaps be inspired to do the same.

Identify ways to enjoy your workout, such as favorite exercises or the recognition of fitness milestones, such as changes in strength and endurance, along the way. Discover the benefits of obtaining a healthier lifestyle that go beyond the aesthetic gains such as increased energy, better mood and lower risk of hypertension/diabetes to sustain your interest in reaching your fitness goals.