When Life Gets in the Way: Finding the Motivation to Train Anyway

We’ve all been there. You set a goal, make a plan, and promise yourself you’ll stay consistent with your training. But then—life happens. Work deadlines pile up, the kids need you, unexpected events pop up, and suddenly, your training session gets pushed aside. Again.

When Life Gets in the Way: Finding the Motivation to Train Anyway

We’ve all been there. You set a goal, make a plan, and promise yourself you’ll stay consistent with your training. But then—life happens. Work deadlines pile up, the kids need you, unexpected events pop up, and suddenly, your training session gets pushed aside. Again.

At first, it’s just one missed workout. No big deal, right? Then it turns into a week, maybe two, and before you know it, you’re stuck in a cycle of frustration, feeling like you’ve lost momentum. And that voice in your head starts whispering, Maybe I’ll just start fresh next week… or next month… or when things calm down.

But here’s the truth: Life will always get in the way. There will never be a “perfect time” to train. If we wait for everything to align just right, we’ll be waiting forever. The key isn’t to eliminate obstacles—it’s to train despite them.

So How Do You Get Back on Track?

1. Shift Your Mindset: Some is Better Than None

Many people think if they can’t do a full workout, it’s not worth doing anything. But that’s a dangerous trap. Even 10 minutes of movement is better than nothing. A short strength session, a quick jog, or mobility work in front of the TV—all of it counts. Progress isn’t about perfection; it’s about consistency.

2. Lower the Barrier to Entry

If motivation is low, make it as easy as possible to start. Lay out your workout clothes the night before. Keep a kettlebell or resistance band in your living room. Remove any unnecessary steps that make skipping your workout the easier option.

3. Schedule It Like an Appointment

You wouldn’t randomly cancel a doctor’s visit or a meeting with your boss, right? Treat your training the same way. Put it on your calendar, set reminders, and hold yourself accountable like you would for any other commitment.

4. Use the “5-Minute Rule”

Feeling exhausted or unmotivated? Tell yourself you’ll just do five minutes. If you’re still not feeling it after that, you can stop. More often than not, once you get moving, you’ll want to keep going. Action creates momentum.

5. Give Yourself Grace, But Don’t Give Up

Life will throw curveballs, and some days you really won’t have time to train. That’s okay. One missed workout won’t derail your progress—quitting will. Instead of beating yourself up, focus on the next opportunity to move.

Remember Your “Why”

At the end of the day, motivation isn’t just about training for the sake of training. It’s about the why behind it. Maybe you want to be stronger as you age, have more energy for your kids, or simply feel better in your own body. When life gets chaotic, remind yourself why you started in the first place.

Training doesn’t have to be perfect, and neither do you. Just keep showing up in whatever way you can. Small efforts add up, and before you know it, you’ll be back in your groove—stronger, more resilient, and ready for whatever life throws your way.

Have a great week!!!