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Day 106: Debunking Motivation Myths and Embracing the Three S's

Hi again, thanks for coming back! Today’s lesson was a powerful one, debunking common myths about motivation and introducing the three S's—structure, systems, and scheduling—as tools for maintaining healthy habits. It was also an active recovery day filled with practical applications of these concepts.

The Myths of Motivation

Today, I learned that feeling constantly inspired or motivated is a myth, even among health and fitness experts. It's normal for motivation to fluctuate, and it’s unrealistic to expect to feel pumped every day. The key takeaway is that action often precedes motivation. For example, starting a walk might feel like a chore, but as I continue, I find my stride and end up energized and focused by the end. This shift is a reminder that by simply doing, I can find the motivation I thought was missing. I am finding that if I am listening to music as I am walking, that helps me go a bit further as well which is a surprise.

Implementing the 3S's

Structure

Creating an environment that supports my goals is crucial. This means having a routine that keeps me on track, ensuring my kitchen is stocked with healthy foods, and making sure that that I have the proper shoes, equipment and clothing to use at home. Each element of my daily environment supports my commitment to health.

Systems

Establishing systems like putting on my workout clothes in the morning or prepping extra veggies at night so that I have them on hand for my breakfast ensures that I’m set up for success. These systems help automate the decision-making process, making healthy choices easier.

Scheduling

Just like any important appointment, I have been trying to make sure that I schedule time for fitness and nutrition. This isn’t left to chance; it’s a fixed part of my day. As an example, I have booked my PN lessons and workout/active recovery days for the week in my calendar, making them non-negotiable. Even when things come up during the day, I have made an extra effort to get my workout done before bed sometimes, not ideal, but no one else is going to exercise for me.

6 small blue berry bushes from Costco sitting in their original shipping containers on my patio table


Active Recovery and Gardening Plans

For my active recovery, I enjoyed walking with my dog around the neighbour hood as my car was in the shop and chose to walk to the mechanic to pick up my car when it was ready instead of getting a ride, making the most of the beautiful weather. These activities not only provided gentle exercise but also time to reflect on implementing today’s lessons.

I’m also excited about my gardening plans. My blueberry plants arrived, and although I can’t plant them immediately due to the dipping temperatures, I’m preparing to build two new gardens this weekend, aligning with the long-term forecast.

Reflections

Today reinforced that maintaining health habits isn’t about waiting for the right mood but about creating conditions that make these habits inevitable. By focusing on structure, systems, and scheduling, I'm making "winning" a habit. This approach demystifies motivation and puts the power back in my hands, ensuring that I keep moving forward, regardless of how I feel at any given moment.

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Location: Canada

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