Getting motivated, getting inspired- that’s the easy part. You can Google gyms, prices, classes, and write down all the strength and conditioning regimes ever created, but none of that matters until you get off the computer and put word into action. Buying a gym membership is not the answer, however. If you want to get “in shape” - whatever that means to you - it is vital that the physical activity you choose to implement in your everyday life actually be enjoyable! Say it with me… ENJOYABLE.

Not a runner? Don’t run. Not a lifter? Don’t lift! No one ever said you have to limit yourself to a handful of exercise activities. Depending on your goals, even a hearty game of golf can do the trick.

I came across an old journal entry I wrote back in July of this year. It read:

I’ve been in this rut for as long as I remember. I get super inspired one minute, make a plan, execute, and then fall back into my chill routine after two weeks of progress. It’s irritating falling into the mindset of “Oh now I’ve deserved a couple cupcakes” when in reality all I did was 20 minutes on the treadmill. It’s a curse I can’t seem to break out of, and I honestly do NOT know any way to stay motivated anymore!

What I didn’t realize was that I wasn’t the problem. It was my environment. My surroundings were toxic. I also kept trying to implement exercise regimes I absolutely loathed entirely. No wonder I wasn’t getting anywhere! I didn’t have many friends or colleagues who lived the #fitfam lifestyle. Most of my friends were about Netflixing and Chilling- in the most literal sense- followed by a night of drinking out on the town. Nothing wrong with that, but it was time for a serious change. I was done with college, and I was over the TFM lifestyle. So I packed up my car and moved from Northern California to the Inland Empire.

WOAH DREAM BIG. Yes, those were drastic changes all for wanting to get fit. But for me, it was more than that. I needed a new environment - one that wasn’t toxic with unhealthy life decisions. An environment where I could be mentally, emotionally, and physically fit was definitely found down here in SoCal! And it was FUN. Moving was fun. Exploring new places is still FUN. I have the time of my life going to the gym now, working out with people who love their job. I find myself meeting new people who are serious about their goals and who are willing to help me with mine. Working out is definitely working out now! And did I mention it’s so FUN. You really just have to find the right circle.

Tired of my optimism? Oh well.

I don’t have any “New Year Resolutions” this year except to keep finding activities that I love to do that allow me to stay active. With these new surroundings, new influences, and a clean slate, I can really say I have made strides toward my goal of being in the absolute best shape of my life. I’m only 23! Almost 24. Who says I peaked at 21? Pfft. If a 65-year-old man can out-hike me on the way up to Vernal Falls, I can stick to my goals, and therefore, having all the cupcakes my tummy desires.

Just think about it - what’s stopping YOU from reaching your goals? Hint - the answer is most likely your environment. Do something about it.