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Staying Motivated and Building a Positive Mindset: My Journey to Staying On Track 🌟

  • Writer: Emelie Eriksson
    Emelie Eriksson
  • Dec 9, 2020
  • 4 min read

Updated: Dec 25, 2024

Hey loves! 🌟


Starting a new fitness or wellness journey is always exciting, but let’s be real—staying motivated can be tough. I’ve been there, juggling life, kids, work, and everything in between, wondering how to keep my energy and focus. Motivation isn’t something you’re born with; it’s a skill you can develop. With the right mindset and tools, you can power through challenges and enjoy every step of the journey. Here’s how I’ve managed to stay inspired, and I hope these tips help you too!


1. Set Clear, Achievable Goals

One thing that’s helped me immensely is setting clear, realistic goals. After having Lucas, I knew I wanted to rebuild my strength and energy, but I didn’t set out to conquer the world in one go. Instead, I broke it down into manageable steps.

  • Start Small: For me, it began with committing to three short workouts a week—just 20 minutes each. Starting small made it feel doable, even with a baby in tow.

  • SMART Goals: When I set running goals during my postpartum fitness journey, I started small, like running 5km comfortably within a few weeks. At this stage, my focus was rebuilding strength and energy postpartum. Breaking it into chunks kept me focused and motivated.

  • Celebrate Milestones: Each time I hit a goal, like completing a particularly tough yoga flow or running a faster mile, I’d treat myself—sometimes with new workout gear or even just a quiet coffee moment. These celebrations made the journey fun!


2. Create a Routine

Let’s face it: motivation comes and goes, but routines are what keep you grounded. After becoming a mum to Lucas, I quickly realised that carving out time for exercise required planning and consistency.

  • Schedule Your Workouts: I started treating workouts like any other appointment. They went in the diary, and I stuck to them—even if it meant doing a quick HIIT session while the boys napped.

  • Consistency Over Perfection: Life happens, and not every week looks the same. But I’ve learned that missing one workout doesn’t derail the journey—it’s about getting back to it the next day.


3. Find Your “Why”

Your “why” is the foundation of your motivation. For me, it’s about being healthy and strong for Lucas—I want to be the mum who can chase after him at the park and show him what resilience looks like.

  • Reflect on Your Motivation: When I feel like skipping a workout, I remind myself why I started. Whether it’s to feel energised, set an example for my kids, or have some precious me-time, my “why” keeps me going.

  • Write It Down: I’ve got my “why” written on a sticky note on my bathroom mirror. It’s a daily reminder that I’m doing this for something bigger than just fitness goals.


4. Surround Yourself with Positivity

Having a supportive circle has made all the difference. Whether it’s my family, friends, or the incredible online community we’re building through Millie Moves, staying connected with positive influences keeps me inspired.

  • Build a Support Network: My bestie Leanne has been my rock—whether it’s joining me for a morning run or sharing tips on juggling motherhood and fitness.

  • Limit Negative Influences: Over the years, I’ve learned to step back from anyone who dampens my enthusiasm. Protecting your mental space is vital for staying motivated.


5. Focus on Progress, Not Perfection

I’ve had days where I felt like I wasn’t moving fast enough or doing enough. But over time, I’ve learned to shift my focus to progress instead of perfection.

  • Track Your Progress: I keep a simple journal where I note what I’ve achieved each week—whether it’s more reps, better sleep, or just feeling good after a workout.

  • Celebrate Non-Scale Victories: After having Lucas, fitting back into pre-pregnancy jeans felt great, but what mattered more was the strength I felt when lifting him or the energy I had for our adventures.


6. Cultivate a Positive Mindset

Mindset is everything. During tough times, I’ve leaned on simple practices to keep my outlook positive.

  • Practice Gratitude: Each night, I jot down three things I’m grateful for. It’s a small ritual that shifts my focus to the positives.

  • Affirmations: On hard days, I’ll tell myself, “You’re strong, you’re capable, and you’ve got this.” It might sound cheesy, but it works.

  • Learn from Setbacks: Every setback is a lesson. When I struggled with consistency as a new mum, I realised I needed to adapt my routine—shorter workouts, more flexibility, and more kindness to myself.


Final Thoughts: Stay Motivated, Stay Positive

The journey to health and wellness isn’t a straight line—it’s a series of steps, adjustments, and lessons. Motivation will ebb and flow, but with a strong “why,” a supportive circle, and a focus on progress, you’ll keep moving forward.

Remember, you’re not alone in this. Celebrate the small wins, stay kind to yourself, and never underestimate the power of showing up. You’ve got this, babe! Here’s to building a healthier, happier you—one step at a time. 💪✨


Millie x

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