4 More Mindset Shifts That Actually Worked To Stick To Your Workout Routine (Part 2)
I’ll highly encourage you to take the time to read Part 1 as well, as I’ve provided context of where I am at in life to keep up with my personal routine.
That said, I believe regardless of life commitments, one can definitely stick to a workout routine as long as its made to fit them (+ embody the 4 mindset shifts I already shared in Part 1).
If you’re here after reading Part 1, your life is about to change as long as you let yourself experience everything that comes with it. Enjoy Part 2!
5. If You’re Only Exercising to Lose Weight, It’ll Never Be Enough
I had to start Part 2 with this. I say this with full compassion: If your only reason for working out is to change how you look, it’s going to feel like a punishment — and that won’t last. This was exactly me when I first picked up weightlifting (from Part 1, you know I gave up), and if you’ve followed my socials closely, you know I’ve been keeping up with it now.
I don’t feel like giving up anymore because my focus has shifted to more beneficial joys in life (more about that in #8).
But yes, some people start because they want to lose weight. But the ones who stick with it? They fall in love with the lifestyle. They love how strong they feel. How much energy they have. How their mind quiets down.
In my own journey, my physical changes weren’t drastic. But mentally, I’m a different person. I feel more focused, more grounded, and more at peace. That’s why I continue. I don’t chase a dream body — I protect the version of myself I’ve grown into. Also if I may add, you don’t need to do anything intense to enjoy these benefits. I got myself to this place simply by walking outdoors everyday!
Aesthetic goals can motivate you in the beginning, but they probably won’t last long-term. Why? Because they’re often tied to extremes — bodybuilder regimens, model physiques, or "clean eating" perfection that isn’t sustainable or joyful. The way you eat sort of dictates how you spend time with people, don’t deny yourself of social fun, and being fun at the dinner table.
You probably already know this, but our bodies are always changing, especially as women. Hormones, life seasons, pregnancy, stress — all of it shapes how we look and feel. The more meaningful question is:
Can I enjoy my life while staying strong and healthy for years to come?
If the answer is yes — even if you’re a little softer, heavier, or less “defined” then that’s more than enough.
6. You Don’t Have to Move, You Get To
Many people take health, age and being able-bodied in general for granted. It’s easy to see workouts as chores — but being able to move is literally a gift! There are people who would give anything to walk pain-free, stretch easily, or run just once. We forget that until our bodies remind us, and honestly, I hope I’ll never need this reminder.
When I started thinking “I get to move” instead of “I have to,” my heart is filled with gratitude, and I look at my morning walks and runs different. Remembering this now and then can reframe everything.
When you move, it doesn’t have to feel like a punishment or military training. It also shouldn’t be because you overate, although that sometimes could help you feel better after eating poorly haha.
7. Buy the New Shoes/gear (Yes, Really)
There’s no shame in wanting new gear if it helps you show up. A pair of leggings that fits well, a nice mat, a fresh water bottle — these little things can reduce friction and make your routine feel exciting again.
You don’t need them to start, but don’t downplay their impact either. I know it’s not the best long-term strategy, but it helps. You can also use it to motivate yourself after sticking to your routine:)
8. Work Out for Future You
This is what keeps me going when motivation is low: I think about the 70-year-old me. Will she still be able to walk long distances? Carry groceries? Travel without needing help? Enjoy life on her own terms?
Fitness isn’t just for now — it’s an investment in your future freedom. And no one else can do that work for you. It starts now, not next time or tomorrow when you feel like it, or need it.
Imagine how grateful your future self will be for every walk you took, every workout you pushed through, and every time you showed up even when you didn’t feel like it when you were younger. You get to spend more quality time with your loved ones because you are healthy & mobile!
We often think about how we’ll regret eating something “bad” or skipping a workout. But what if the real regret is waking up one day and realising you never built the kind of body and mind that could carry you through life with ease?
It’s okay to eat your cravings and skip a workout. But not all the time. I remind myself that I don’t want to be sitting in the doctor’s office at 65 only for them to tell me I need to start working out to manage my ailments. Imagine how difficult it would be to start exercising, if you never did that consistently for 2-3 decades.
Final Note❤️
If you’ve made it through both parts, I hope this series helped you feel less stuck and more seen. I hope you’ll make new goals for future you, instead of current you. Don’t worry, when you start showing up consistently, nobody is going to miss the changes you have made!
I once read this somewhere: The highest form of wealth is not in the form of money or material goods that you can show off to others. It’s that you invested enough time in yourself and you have a body to show for it. That’s true wealth that money can’t quite buy (naturally, at least).
Come back to this when you need some reminders from time to time, you’re doing great!
