Whenever we start comparing ourselves to others, we inevitably find ourselves disappointed, jealous, or smug. None serve as positive reinforcements.

If you find your reasons for working out to be driven by how others look, how others get attention, or how others may think of you, stop those reasons immediately.

This is why we at Keelo hate #fitspo images. Nearly all of them are meant to make us feel bad, or less-than-adequate, with the “promise” of somehow making us instantly better… but only if we buy their products or services. Right?

Instead, put yourself first. It’s one of the few times you can without any guilt.

Have A Quantifiable Goal That’s About Performance

Think of a quantifiable goal that’s about improving your physical performance. Examples:

• “I’d like to run a mile in under 10 minutes.”
• “I’d like to run a 5K, or even a half or full marathon, for the first time!”
• “I’d like to squat my own bodyweight.”
• “I’d like to be physically self-sufficient as I get older.”

By making our goals be about physical performance, we liberate ourselves from others’ opinions. Working out is no longer about attaining the skinny legs, flat abs, six-pack, giant arms, or big chest to fit others’ standards.

Furthermore, physical performance is something we can always improve upon. If you have big muscles, great. Perhaps you’ve always wanted to run a 5K in under 21 minutes. Go for that now.

Quantification of goals is important, because it keeps us honest and on-track. It’s tremendously motivating to see ourselves reach our goals, one step at a time. After months of training, being able to run a 5K for the first time is a huge accomplishment! So is achieving a new back squat personal record!

Think about the WHY in why you work out. If it’s primarily driven by others, stop that reason immediately. Instead, replace it with a performance goal that’s just for you.

Make your reason personal. See yourself succeed.