Just recently I was asked about how I stay motivated.

This person had lost the desire to exercise and let “life” get in the way of her health.

She admitted that the best time in her life was when she ate better, exercised, and saw the positive side of things.  She missed those good old days and wanted it all back but she lacked the motivation to begin.

I’m sure she’s not alone.  Many people express their desire to make positive changes in their lives but they either lack the motivation to begin or the will to continue once they get started.

The following exercise is simple to do and can help you find that spark to take the first step.

Motivation comes from an emotionally charged goal. Motivation comes from discovering the real reason for wanting to achieve that goal.

But before I go any further, please take a minute to grab a pen and paper, and get ready to answer a few questions.  This is a very simple yet valuable exercise that can help bring instant motivation.

Step 1:  What is Your Goal and Why?

To begin, right down your goal and the steps you need to take in order to achieve it.

For example, if weight loss is a goal, you’ll need to exercise more and eat better.

Be clear on what it is that you want to achieve.

The next step is to determine why you want to achieve that goal.

For example, why do you want to lose weight?  Is it to look better for the opposite sex? Is it to be able to have more energy to play with your kids?  Is it to feel better in your clothes and boost your confidence?

What is your driving force to want to change?

Be as specific as possible and keep asking yourself “why” until you have found as many answers as you can. Be real and be honest with yourself. Dig deep and uncover the real reasons that stir up strong emotions.

Take a few minutes to write these down.

Step 2:  Visualize Your Goal

Now imagine your life six months from now. Imagine what it would be like if you achieved everything you set out to achieve.

How would that make you feel? What would success look like to you? What would others be saying about you?

Allow yourself to experience those emotions and take time to write them all down.

Recognize that those very emotions are the sparks needed to inspire you, to motivate you and to keep you going.