So many of us grapple with our weight, and let’s be honest—those of us who lack a strong sense of self-discipline often find ourselves yearning for that one magical spark to ignite our motivation. We all want to achieve a healthier weight and a more fulfilling life, but the journey can be daunting.
If you’ve been hunting online for motivation, tips, or tricks, you’ve likely stumbled upon the term “fitspiration” on platforms like Tumblr, Twitter, Instagram, or Pinterest. Typically, it features stunning images of perfectly sculpted bodies in action, designed to inspire you to push your limits by showcasing what’s achievable. But here’s the kicker: it probably isn’t working.
Fitness expert and author Mark Thompson suggests that this approach can be more detrimental than beneficial. He points out that motivation falls into two categories: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic motivation stems from a desire to improve oneself or to enjoy activities like running or yoga, while extrinsic motivation focuses on achieving a specific ideal, often influenced by others.
Extrinsic motivation can lead to feelings of inadequacy, causing you to view exercise as a chore rather than a joy. Thompson argues that fitspiration, which thrives on extrinsic motivation, frames exercise as a necessary punishment rather than a rewarding experience.
Old-school diets, strict carb restrictions, and the pressure to shed pounds for an upcoming event are all manifestations of extrinsic motivation. While this approach may yield quick results, it rarely fosters lasting change and can often backfire.
I often find myself trapped in this cycle of wishing for a thinner version of myself, turning to late-night snacks as a form of comfort. I understand the consequences of reaching for that jar of peanut butter at 11 PM, but sometimes, I just need that little pick-me-up. I go through bursts of determination to exercise daily for a few weeks, only to lose steam when it feels more like a chore than something enjoyable.
Years ago, I shifted my focus from appearance to health. As a mom to young kids, I began considering the long-term impact of my lifestyle choices. Coming from a family with young parents and grandparents, I wanted the best for my children. This realization became my intrinsic motivation, and it turned my mindset around.
Exercise isn’t my favorite thing, but I discovered yoga and interactive games like Wii Fit Plus, which transformed workouts into something fun rather than a burden. I also embraced Weight Watchers, allowing me to enjoy regular meals while focusing on healthier options. My passion for baking led me to create healthier recipes, even launching a blog to share my journey.
I lost 40 pounds and felt fantastic. However, life’s challenges tested my resolve, replacing my motivation with a longing for comfort. Now, I’m gradually rediscovering that intrinsic motivation—exercising for joy rather than just aesthetics will guide me back to a healthier lifestyle.
So, prioritize your health without being too hard on yourself. Don’t let fitspiration turn you into someone who feels inadequate. While looking and feeling good is important, fixating on a perfect body isn’t the way to get there. As Thompson emphasizes, “Embrace fitness as a tool to enhance your life, not something that controls it.”
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Summary
Focusing on intrinsic motivation rather than external validation is key to achieving and maintaining health goals. Fitspiration often leads to guilt and negative feelings, whereas embracing fitness as a joyful activity can lead to lasting changes.