I can tell you exactly how I keep myself motivated; especially at the beginning of the year.  I turn inward.  That’s right!  I actually invest valuable time to take a close look at myself.  Really close!  I put my own oxygen mask on before attempting to help others.  I call it “re-creating myself.”  I learned this from studying the lives of great women on the Biography channel.

I start with how I feel . . . where I can improve my eating behavior.  I begin with what I can omit, what I can cut down on, what I should add and most importantly where I am loosing control.  This is very humbling.  My weakness is salt; specifically kettle chips – more specifically “salt-n-pepper kettle chips.  Even MORE specific, salt-n-pepper kettle chips after dinner!  I confess - Now you know!  It feels good getting that off my chest!

 

Next, I focus on how I act . . .my attitude.  I make sure I am not looking at the world through dirty lenses.  Over time I have found that crud can build up on your world perspective just like it builds up in your email in-box, your dusty shelves, your kitchen drain, and YES, even in your body.  It’s toxic waste.  So, I engage in an attitude detox.  I do this by reading positive books.  One of my favorites is “The Winning Attitude” by John C. Maxwell.  Believe me, I’ve read it many times!

 

Then I move on to how I look . . .my physical fitness level, hair and clothing choices, etc.   I love to exercise so I make little adjustments; more weight, less weight, buy a new video, try a new kind of exercise, more interval training, etc.  Any change is good and my body always responds positively from it.  I also like to change up my typical clothing choices because it gives me a feeling of newness.  Oh, and I can't forget new lingerie! A necessity!  I avoid boredom.  Boredom is the #1 killer of a positive attitude.  Lastly, I try to keep the years and wear-n-tear off my body as much as possible.  This includes facials, exfoliations, massage, new “potions” etc.   The FUN STUFF!  Of course, these are items that cost money, so I have to really work my budget and keep my priorities straight.  But, where there is a will, there is definitely a way!

 

Finally, I look at my career focus; what I want to achieve in the industry and who I can help.  I like to always be learning a new trade.  This year I decided to study how to be a better writer, as well as how to better work within my website software program.  I also take note of any new fitness programs I want to teach and then begin studying their methodology to be able to perform them well.  I also begin networking in areas that are new to me; making new friends and sharing new ideas amongst each other.  This keeps my mind always moving forward.  And when your mind is moving forward, so will your career! 

 

In conclusion, I have found that when I turn inward and begin with the small things - that may seem a little insignificant or self-centered to others - I can then draw from that positive self-image that I create and begin to work outwardly to better assist my family, my industry and my peers.  I realized this valuable lesson as a young mother.  I found that if I gave everything to my family and left nothing for myself, I had no positive self-esteem energy to draw from.  But, if I look in the mirror first and treat myself right, I have plenty of patience, love, and compassion for those around me.  Why?  Because I'm feeling good!