This is how you can overcome your weaker inner self
Some people don't like spiders, others don't like snakes - but everyone really fears their inner weaker self . This strange creature always stirs when we should take action. It makes us listless, listless - and then often even restless or angry with ourselves. That's over now.
In this Dextro Energy* story, we'll look at why you ca n't bring yourself to exercise , why you eventually give up activities you've started - and would rather lie on the couch than sweat in the gym. By the way: This rotten bastard (it's really good to be able to call him that) also barks or grunts at work , while studying or even when we should actually get ourselves together to meet up with friends .
Would you like 10 good tips on how you can overcome your inner weaker self? Then read on quickly (and please tie the bastard up somewhere for as long as possible).
What is the weaker self actually?
If we want to overcome our inner weakness , we have to understand it. Regarding the term: Let's use the term, let's use a swear word that was used by students a long, long time ago and was really only chosen for people you didn't like. Today the word is reserved for this strange weakness of will in all of us, which arises especially when we have to do unpleasant, annoying, strenuous or even dangerous things. Which brings us to our first tip:
Tip 1: The inner bastard and psychology
Now let's be honest: who likes to tackle things that aren't fun , that are annoying, tiring, very boring or not our thing at all? Exactly. Without going into too much detail, it's completely normal not to want to tackle things we don't like. Anyone who is afraid of water will not want to dive or swim. Anyone who has low maximum strength certainly doesn't dream of powerlifting four times a week - surrounded by mountains of muscle and mocking looks (which, by the way, don't exist in good gyms). And if you're not fit, you'll probably shudder at the thought of hiking in the mountains or going on a day bike ride. In short: We can only overcome the bastard if we understand when it stirs in everyday life. And very often it does this when we approach or choose activities that are not suitable for us. Out of whichever reasons. So the following applies: find out what you like . This also applies to work, teaching or studying: If you do something that suits you (and is still challenging), the bastard rarely moves.
Tip 2: Your inner bastard likes it when you suffer
Imagine choosing a new sport. Let's say: running. And because you've seen so many cool videos and read articles, you'll hit the ground running like the fire department from day one. Far too fast, far too far, with the wrong equipment. Result: Something bad. Maybe cramps, maybe a burning lung, stitches in the side, far too many breaks, hardly any kilometers, etc. The consequence: you suffer - and probably won't be able to get up so easily for the next run. That's why it applies to beginners and advanced users alike that you should know your limits. Whether you'll love the sport is always up in the air at the beginning - but if you start it too quickly, the love story will be over before it can begin. In short: listen to your body. Adapt your exercise daily to how you feel. Period pain? Sore muscles? Training break. Because: relaxation and regeneration are just as important as training plans and routines .
Tip 3: Develop routines – even for bad times
Any professional can tell you: success is based on healthy routines . That's why you should develop routines from the start in everything you do. Training plans are incredibly helpful in establishing routines and adapting them to your progress over time. Whether digitally or on paper: determine at what intervals you want to train, how you want to eat, when, and what your rest periods look like. And despite all the routine, always remain flexible. For example, it is more important to train four times a week than to determine exactly which days you will train four times. The best way to develop these training plans and routines is with experts. Two examples of routines that make sense: Nutritionists can tell you what your daily morning routine looks like (breakfast is important), how you can get through the day full and healthy - and how you can end it satisfied with a balanced meal. Personal trainers, on the other hand, will help you stick with your sport (also important here: the morning routine ). These and many other routines (that you can put together yourself) will help you even when you're not that motivated, when the weather is bad or the couch is tempting and you still wanted to go for a run.
Tip 4: The bastard loves it when you are clueless
Have you ever assembled a piece of furniture without instructions? Probably didn't work out so well. One thing is clear: if you have no idea or are poorly prepared, your task will simply be more difficult. Or it even becomes impossible. Especially when it comes to sports, your weaker self loves it when you start out poorly prepared or completely clueless. Simply because there is a very good chance that you will immediately give up and put sport Therefore: inform yourself before you look for a new hobby. Boxing training, for example, is highly effective and strengthens the body and mind - but it is also so strenuous that many never return to the gym after the first training session. And even gentler sports such as yoga or spinning can quickly become unpleasant if your flexibility or endurance are not right. That's why visit the gym or studio beforehand , get to know the people, find out when the beginners' lessons take place - and reduce inhibitions, worries, doubts and, above all, the chance of embarrassing surprises in advance. Our tip here: grab a day ticket. This way you can get a comprehensive picture in practice.
Overcame the bastard? Best feeling in the world! @iStock.com/sonreir it's free
Tip 5: Set realistic goals when exercising
In times of social media, we are only surrounded by the best and extreme performances in sports. The most bench presses, the longest marathons, the defined bodies: if we just take a quick look behind the scenes, we can see how much work goes into it. It's a long way from a beer belly to a real six-pack. For a marathon, as a beginner you have to train for a long time and, above all, consistently and routinely. Nobody can pull off punches like those from Roger Federer or Muhammad Ali on Day 1 on the court or in the ring. And so on. So if you set your expectations too high, you will end up (and that comes quickly) very disappointed. That's why we'd like to refer you again to tip 4: Find out more beforehand, then you'll find out how long it will take to get to where you want to go. And another important detail: especially when it comes to appearance, you should know that Photoshop and steroids are used much more often than you realize. So beware of unrealistic ideals . You are you. And that's a good thing.
Tip 6: Take time for your sport
Again, this tip also helps with work and other tasks. Your weaker self really appreciates it when time slips through your fingers. No routines, a lot of work, hectic everyday life and little focus? The ingredients for missed training sessions, little progress and ultimately the end of your hobby. Therefore: Check your schedule in advance. Whether you want to train for a bike ride across the Alps, lose winter fat or build muscle: do you have time for it? Does this all fit into your life right now? No? Then look for a sport that works better in your current everyday life. The Alps won't run away from you. Always remember tip 1: You will only be successful in the long term if you enjoy doing something . Training under time pressure is no fun, is it?
Tip 7: All for one! And everyone against the bastards!
What was true for the Three Musketeers and the wonderful D'Artagnan also applies to us: One for all and all for one! So why not just take up the fight against your inner weaker self as part of the team ? You don't have to get a coat and sword right away, but if you team up with a few training partners, you could motivate each other, encourage each other, help each other up and get each other off the couch.
Tip 8: A safe environment is important for sporting success
Nobody likes it when others look at their bottom when they do squats. The mocking looks mentioned above when you take your first steps in powerlifting are also stupid. Overcrowded gyms, jam-packed climbing halls or sweaty yoga studios aren't the real thing - especially when there are so many egos running around in these rooms that it's almost unbearable. This may all sound very drastic, but a safe environment is so important, especially when it comes to indoor and club sports (like tennis or golf, for example). Backbiting, bullying, forming cliques and other things have no place in sports. Therefore: If you don't feel well, look for something else. Leisure time should be fun and good for you - and if sport isn't fun and isn't good for you, your weaker self will immediately kick in. Here's another reference to tip 4: check the studio or club beforehand (it's best to talk to nice members there). And avoid unpleasant surprises.
Tip 9: Conquer your inner weaker self with the right diet
If you want to overcome your inner weakness and really get started with sport, the right diet is essential. And if you're now thinking to yourself, "My inner bastard especially likes fast food, chips, chocolate and sodas," then you're onto something very important: The bastard hates healthy, wholesome food. And he doesn't like supplements that can help you with your sport either. That's why show him and from now on treat yourself to lots of fruit and vegetables, nuts, high-quality oils and fats and less stuff that the bastard loves. And before, during and after your sport, our endurance products and fitness products are available - for quickly available carbohydrates, proteins, minerals and so much more.
Tip 10: Clothes make the man – and drive away the bastards
Do you love your gym clothes? Do the shoes fit perfectly? Are the colors and shapes of the jacket and pants, top and accessories correct? Yes? Perfect! Because the bastard can't stand it when you feel really good. Whether you want to emphasize and conceal body parts, equip yourself with the latest high-tech for your sport or rock the slopes, streets and forest paths in a retro look: Dress to impress. And you'll find it easier to pick yourself up when it comes to doing a little exercise.
*contains carbohydrates
A varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle are important.
PHOTO CREDITS
Header image: #run.further.eat.better (Photographer: Yannik Michael)
