Motivation

So as we enter the month of August, I find I am losing my motivation.  I think in the Northeast specifically it has been a difficult summer.  One of the many things I love about my job as a Pilates instructor is that I hear from a diverse group of individuals. It seems that a commonality among us is that this just does not seem to be a relaxing or carefree summer.  Between the weather (I think it has rained most days since April) and the economy (forcing us to stress too much or work too much) the idea of sitting back and enjoying the warmth and restfulness of summer is a foreign concept.

I began this summer with every intention to take advantage of the warmth by jogging every day.  I even signed up for the NYC marathon lottery hoping it would give me inspiration, and it did - until I learned like most hopefuls that I was not chosen.  So my next goal was to have the most amazingly toned abs and arms I could get, and for a while that too was going well, but then I reached that goal and the arms and abs decided they liked it better being just less than amazing.  

So now, I am thinking that it is nearly August.  Before I know it Fall will have arrived and I will be back to a hectic schedule.  So instead of looking and achieving goals and stressing about working or not working I'm going to try something new and relax.  Now those of you who know me also know that this is not an easy task.  I find comfort in moving and having a goal and purpose, but I think at this time I need a break.  My daughter just turned 2 and is beginning to comprehend "Time Out".  When we are walking too much or she feels she needs a break she will sit wherever she is and declare "Time Out".  So in her words I too need a time out in order to appreciate the stillness of summer.  My mind and body need a break.  I may not be going away but in my mind the pressure to "do" or achieve is going on vacation.