We’ve all been there: falling into a slump where the motivation to go workout and be the healthiest kid on the block just vanishes. Gone. I’m there myself, currently in the worst shape I’ve been in in quite a while, but the important thing is that I don’t fall victim to it- and that goes for you too!

There are so many factors that can throw our daily lives off-kilter, and I’m here to tell you THAT’S OKAY. IN FACT, IT’S NORMAL. Maybe you’ve never been to a gym or done any kind of workout and are afraid to start. Any way you cut the cake, you’re feeling stagnant.

There are tons of motivating factors out there, but here are 3 methods I find quite useful for myself:

1. New Workout Clothes/Shoes!

I LOVE me some new gym threads. Even if you like to do at-home workouts, or run to the gym as soon as you roll out of bed, sometimes the new clothes just make you wanna look a little better in ‘em. (They’re also great for putzing around town in: “..oh, you’re asking if I just came from the gym? No, I’m here for the chips and queso and needed stretchy pants.”)

Some of my favorite brands include Alo Yoga, Lululemon, and Zella. However, any brand of any design will do, so long as YOU feel great wearing it!

2. Setting a Goal

This one is important to me. It is so easy to go into a robotic mode in my workout routine and not push myself hard enough in the gym or not have much structure with my diet, which in turn just makes me feel like I’m not making any progress- mostly because I’m not! Having a goal in mind and a reason to implement changes and push myself makes the whole process much more enjoyable. But remember, unless you are training to step up on a stage, be kind to yourself. If you fall off of the wagon, get right back on. It’s life, we all have one and every now and then ya gotta live a little.

3. Music

My gym playlist can literally make or break my workout. Though I usually go to the gym with my fiancé, we actually don’t work out together. I tend to prefer being on my own to get through my sets and really keep my focus. When I’m getting song after song that makes me dig deep and push myself, I feel so much more accomplished! There are times when I just cannot find a playlist or can’t get into a rhythm. Feel no shame for finding motivation in music or any other means- whatever works for YOU is the best you can do! Get yourself an amazing playlist that just makes you want to get up and put in some serious work.

Obviously there are many more motivational factors in my life, but these are 3 that I find have made an appearance and gotten me into a good headspace multiple times- tonight included. I finally had the desire to get back in the gym and kill it, and I am feeling more like my normal self again! Below are some photos from my workout to maybe help and motivate you.

What motivates you to get up and get moving? Share in a comment!