If you’re like me, you’re a little streaky. There are times when things are going well, and it’s not that hard to eat right, exercise well, and feel relaxed and confident. Then there are other times when things are a little more challenging. I may eat a little too much, or have a little more trouble getting out the door for a run or I just don’t feel quite as excited about things as I usually am.

What do you do when you have those down times? How do you get back in your groove? For some people, the answer seems to involve retreating. I know some introverts who crave peace and quiet, and can get back in their groove when they get a little extra alone time. Other people are more extroverted, and they feed off of others’ energy. Spending time with others helps them get their motivation back.

How do you get your motivation back when it flags, or get back in your groove when you’re knocked out?

I watch motivation videos of people ho have lost weight on YouTube ect...if I still REALLY need motivations I get naked in front of the mirror, that will do it every. stinking. time.

I put together a plan with spreadsheets (because I'm a little geeky like that) and immerse myself in tracking and measuring.

When it comes to exercise all I have to do is sign up for an event like a 5K. That gives me a deadline and a training plan to focus on. I do better when I'm working towards something.

I journal, get it all down on paper, and yes on the necessary alone time (could my family please go away for a few days and take the phone with them?). Spending time in nature helps me -- gardening and walking outside -- and when I'm stressed (good stress or bad stress) it helps me to walk it off. A mini juice fast can reboot my dietary needs, get me back in touch and listening well to my body.

@@*Lexie* thanks for the reminder about how a 5K on the horizon can reinvigorate; I've got some paperwork on one in my in-box and am going to go tend to that now. I walk at least that all the time these days, but a timed event like that is different for me. I can't get over even being able to do it. Reminds me of how proud of myself I am and what a good feeling that is. We have all come so far.

Oh, these are all great ones! Elode, you are right…nothing like a good hard look in the mirror to convince yourself that something needs to be done…now!

Lexie, those are both great. Developing a plan, tracking, and setting a goal like a 5k helps give you something to do and focus on NOW instead of thinking about the weight loss or body you’re hoping to have in a few months from now…and that you can’t possibly have now.

Bandista…yep, a little reboot can help, whether it’s a mental recharge or a physical detox.

Exercise. Exercise. Exercise. Helps me refocus.