Motivation Hacks: Jumpstart Your Health Journey with Action
We often hear the phrase "I'll start tomorrow" or "I just need to find the motivation." When it comes to embarking on a weight loss journey or taking steps to prevent diabetes, many people believe that motivation is needed, then we take action. However, the reality is quite the opposite – action often sparks motivation.
Before a big birthday milestone, I remember deciding to finally evict those extra pounds that have taken resident on my belly. I told my best friend, but when it came down to preparing my meal for the next day, I found myself procrastinating. It was one of those evenings when motivation seemed elusive. "Maybe I'll start tomorrow," I thought.
The following day, as fate would have it, I walked into work to find that lunch was being provided. It was one of those tempting spreads of delicious, but not-so-healthy food. In that moment, I felt my motivation wane. After all, one day won't make a significant difference, right? And besides, it was a free lunch, so why not indulge just this once?
This is a scenario many of us can relate to. We set out with the best intentions, but when the moment arrives to take action, we procrastinate. We find ourselves making excuses, thinking that it's not the right time or that we'll start next week. But therein lies the trap. The cycle of inaction continues, and we don't make progress toward our weight loss or diabetes prevention goals.
In this blog, we'll explore why action often precedes motivation, the role of dopamine in this process, and how understanding this dynamic can be a game-changer on your health journey. So, let's dive in!
The Motivation Myth
Most of us have experienced those moments when we've set ambitious health goals: shedding those extra pounds, adopting a healthier diet, or managing blood sugar levels to prevent diabetes. Initially, we are filled with enthusiasm and motivation. But here's the catch: motivation can be fickle and fleeting. It often fades away just when we need it the most.
The truth is that waiting for motivation to strike before taking action can be a recipe for inaction. This is where the principle of action before motivation comes into play. By taking the first step, even if it's a small one, you can jump-start a chain reaction that leads to increased motivation.
Think about it, whenever you start a new diet, you stick to it for a week or two and if you happen to lose a pound or two, you THEN become motivated to continue with your efforts.
But here's where things often take a turn. Motivation, that initial fiery drive, begins to wane. You find yourself eyeing that tempting dessert, thinking it won't hurt to indulge just this once. And then, before you know it, you're sliding back into old habits.
So, why does this happen? Why does motivation seem to fade so quickly, leaving us feeling like we're back at square one? Well, the answer is deeply rooted in how our brains are wired, particularly in the realm of dopamine.
Dopamine: The Brain's Reward System
Dopamine is often called the "feel-good" neurotransmitter. It's the brain's way of rewarding us when we accomplish something and plays a crucial role in the action-motivation cycle. When we accomplish a task or set a goal and achieve it, our brain rewards us with a dose of dopamine. This reward mechanism reinforces the behavior, making us more likely to repeat it.
When you initially decide to start a diet or an exercise routine, that decision is an action in itself. Your brain releases a small surge of dopamine as a reward. This creates a fleeting feeling of motivation. However, the real motivation, the one that sticks around and propels you forward, comes after you've taken action.
Here's how it relates to weight loss and diabetes prevention: When you initiate action, such as going for a walk, choosing a healthier meal, or monitoring your blood sugar levels, and you follow through with it, your brain releases dopamine. This can create a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, which then fuels motivation for further positive actions.
Breaking It Down: Action Steps
1. Start Small: Don't wait for the perfect moment to overhaul your entire lifestyle. Begin with achievable, manageable steps. For instance, commit to a daily 10-minute walk or swap one unhealthy snack for a healthier option.
2. Celebrate Every Win: Regardless of how small it may seem, celebrate your achievements. When you acknowledge your progress, it triggers the release of dopamine, reinforcing your commitment.
3. Consistency Is Key: The more consistent you are in taking action, the more motivated you become. Your brain learns that positive actions lead to rewards.
4. Set Realistic Goals: Ensure your goals are attainable. Unrealistic expectations can lead to frustration and demotivation. Saying I’m going to lose 50 pounds by the end of the month is very unlikely to happen, but saying, I am committing to moving my body for 5 minutes every day is very reasonable.
In the pursuit of weight loss and diabetes prevention, waiting for motivation to strike may leave you feeling stuck. Instead, understand that action often precedes motivation. By taking small, consistent steps and celebrating your wins, you can trigger the release of dopamine and build lasting motivation. Remember, it's not about waiting for the right moment; it's about creating the right moment through action.
So, don't hesitate. Start now. Whether it's choosing a salad over fries or going for that evening walk, each action you take brings you one step closer to your health goals. Action precedes motivation, and motivation will follow your actions.
Embark on your journey today and watch how momentum builds, leading you to a healthier, happier life.
