Keeping Yourself Accountable – Guest Blog by Ambassador Linzie Starr

"We hope you enjoy this guest blog from Garmin Ambassador Linzie Starr"

I make it a point to work out and get my run done after work. I find it is a great way to wrap up your day and burn off stress. It also keeps me from being a vegetable on the couch with my best pal Hulu. It's all about keeping myself accountable. If I don't put in the work, the results just aren't going to come. Greatness takes work. I always tell people that ask me how to stay accountable to a goal they have made to do the following. Sign up for an event. Make the initial investment. You've spent the money. You're on the guest list. Many people I know don't like to waste money so they will work extra hard to ensure the money doesn't go to waste. Make a schedule and stick to it. Start off easy. Ease yourself into the new life change because it will be difficult to get used to. And finally, have a positive outlook. Every workout won't be great. But every workout is a success if you start and finish. You're a champion with every day you work toward your goal. The event you signed up for is your victory lap.

Finding motivation to work out is a mental game. Some days you just will NOT want to do it. I have found the days where I "skip" my workout because I just am not in the mood I regret it. You can't make up a workout. Workouts are based on consistency and building endurance and strength over time. So, a schedule is important. So, some days I'll suffer through my workout. It may not be the best, or the prettiest but at least I can be proud of myself and know I got the job done. That in itself motivates me. I don't want to disappoint myself or my followers. 

You have to be honest with yourself. What matters the most? What/who is in your life now that require your attention? You have to take a long hard look at your life and have conversations with those around you. Include others in the process. Your life has a ripple effect and touches so many people. You don't want to have the "You forgot all about me because your new boyfriend Running takes all of your attention away!". So find out what is really important to you and time block your day. I will spend X time working out and Y with friends and family. Make a commitment to yourself and others. Relationships matter.