Motivation…it is a big word and can have a huge impact on our daily lives. However, how often do we really think about what motivates us to do things? Perhaps those who are training for races think about it more often but I am sure there are plenty of people that pay no mind to this word.

Motivation.

But for me motivation is a huge part of my life…in and out of the work place but for now, let’s focus on staying out of work and think about how motivation applies to our daily lives and training.

What motivates you to go out and run (or do your fitness equivalent if you are not a runner)? For me I could say I am motivated by others, their accomplishments, their hurdles, or just to be a good example for my darling daughter. Sure, all those come into play and can help me out of a hump but when it really gets down to it, I am motivated to run because of me. I can look to others for motivation but I need to be motivated to do so in the first place. Therefore, motivation comes from within and we all have this power.

What is your personal motivation? It could be to look good in a bikini, to be fit, to be strong, to get a new PR, to be a good example, and the list could go on forever. Sure, some of these things stand out for me personally but honestly, my primary motivation is peace and living a life true to me. If I don’t take care of myself, I can’t be a good wife, mom, or employee. I find me in my running. I found my spirituality in my running. I find peace in my running. And I need to be true to me to be the best I can be for others.

I am my motivation.

But this doesn’t mean life is always good, that running is always easy, and that there are no obstacles. If only that were the case! My life is full of hiccups and I wouldn’t want it any other way. Each hiccup, each mental hurdle, each injury, makes me stronger and I am thankful for each one. It is through seeing the glass half full and embracing lemonade that I am able to stay in tune with my motivation and remember, I learn the lessons my soul is to learn through running.

So tell me, what is your motivation? How do you stay in tune with it?

It was great “meeting” you all today and if you are interested in following more of my journey you can find me at:

Many mahalos Ali for this opportunity.

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Questions:

1. what’s your motivation? how do you stay in tune with it?? (asks Erica)

My motivation is how I feel. Sometimes I just need to tap into how my mind, emotions and body are feeling to know I need to get a workout in. Another thing that motivates me (which may sound weird) is people that have wronged me in the past. Sometimes when I’m on the treadmill I picture running by them giving them the finger, thinking HEY I’m doing this!  

2. how would you/do you motivate others in your life??