It’s that time of year again – we’re making lists, organizing our lives, and jotting down resolutions. The motivation is strong, and we’re ready to take on the world!

However, motivation, while great, is just a feeling. It’s fickle – here one moment, gone the next. It’s temporary and inconsistent. Imagine if we could keep that “January 1st” level of motivation all year round! But let’s be real: that’s not how it works. We all have days when we’re tired, disassociated, and just plain over it. Motivation fluctuates with our energy levels (which change daily for us mamas!), emotions, and circumstances.

So, what can we do when we’re not feeling motivated? This is where discipline comes into play. Discipline is a learned skill – a muscle we can strengthen over time. Unlike motivation, discipline is a commitment to our goals achieved through perseverance and good habits. These habits form the invisible architecture of our lives.

When Motivation Lags, Discipline Leads

You might be thinking, “This sounds great in theory, but what can I do when my motivation is lacking?” Healthy and sustainable habits are some of the most effective ways to create the lives we want.

1. Schedule Your Workouts: Without a scheduled workout time, you might wake up each morning thinking, “I hope I feel motivated to exercise today.” Having a set time helps turn exercise into a habit rather than a choice.
2. Systemize Meal Planning: Without a meal planning system, you’ll find yourself staring into the fridge, wondering, “I hope my nutrition is on point today.” Consistent meal planning can take the guesswork out of healthy eating.
3. Regularly Recharge: Without a regular time to quiet your mind and recharge, you’ll end up battling burnout and thinking, “I wish I had more time for myself.” Schedule this time like any other important task.

Practical Tips to Boost Your Discipline

Here are some practical strategies to help you develop discipline and maintain your goals, even when motivation is lacking:

• Focus on Getting Started: Set a 10-minute timer for whatever task you need to tackle. Often, the hardest part is just beginning. You’ll likely find yourself working past the 10 minutes once you get going.
• Write Down Your Goals: Big or small, make a list of your goals. Ensure your list is actionable and specific. Quick wins can keep us going and might even build our motivation!
• Change Your Environment: Turn up the music, move your body, get outside – sometimes we just need a reset. A change of scenery can provide a fresh perspective and renewed energy.
• Develop a Daily Routine: This is where habits come in. Consistently showing up every day to do the work builds habits that help us achieve our goals. Discipline bridges the gap when motivation wanes.

The Path to Consistency

Want to keep going even when you don’t feel like it? Start small. Get clear on your why. Make the practice a habit. And then grow the discipline to do it consistently.

By focusing on discipline and building strong habits, you can create a life where motivation isn’t the only driving force. Here’s to a year of sustained progress and achieving your goals, one disciplined step at a time!

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