Forget Motivation

Dad called and asked that I add the pitcure of him and Moriah, but I like this pic of he and my mom! Thanks, Dad, for your post! I hope it encourages all of you!!!

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I struggled for 10 years to lose weight! My pattern became very predictable; I would get disgusted with myself, get motivated to lose, drop a few pounds, return to my old habits and gain it all back (and then some).

I thought my problem was a lack of motivation. In February of 2007 I was at an all time of high of nearly 240 pounds and I decided it was time to try again. Here is what I did:

1) I developed a reasonable/healthy plan that I could do for the rest of my life!
2) I found an accountability partner in my wife!
3) I created a journal that I record and review my weekly successes and failures!
4) I continued to read and learn about health!

An interesting thing happened as I worked my plan; The more I did what I said I would do my motivation flourished. Motivation came later, it grew as a result of doing the right things. I was learning an important life lesson; Motivation is the by-product of doing what is right.

Exercise is a classic example of this principle. Just prior to going for a run I will always think to myself... don't do it! After I run I always think to myself... I love this! My greatest motivation to run always comes after I run; never before!

Here's your lesson: Stop allowing a lack of motivation to be your excuse! Develop your plan and stick with it whether you feel like it or not. Stop looking for motivation and do your plan... motivation will find you!

Your friend,
Pastor Joel