There are lots of reasons why people start working out and eating better, but there is only one reason why they will stick with a program in the long run – LOVE.

Sounds weird to say “love” though doesn’t it? But that is exactly what happens.

You either fall in love with the routine and how you FEEL. Or maybe both.

Because, if you don’t enjoy and love your new habits, they aren’t going to stick.

The motivation of a big event, a New Year’s Resolution or even a doctor’s visit saying you need to get your ducks in a row is only fleeting unfortunately. Amazing that it is, but that motivation doesn’t last.

So if you don’t love or enjoy what you are doing, you aren’t going to stick with a healthy lifestyle in the long run. And the long run is what matters.

People always ask, “How long do I have to eat this way for results? How long do I have to continue to workout?”

And the answer is, “In some form or fashion…FOREVER.”

You don’t just eat differently for a few months and then go back to old habits. Or if you do, you are bound to end up right back where you started even if you initial got results.

Plus eating well and working out don’t have to be miserable…actually the SHOULDN’T be miserable.

You should find a balance that you enjoy and include foods and workout routines that you enjoy.

Being healthy doesn’t mean giving up everything you love to eat lettuce and spend hours in the gym…heck I hate lettuce….now cauliflower on the other hand…

Anyway, I guess my point is that you have to do things because you enjoy doing them or find a way to fall in love with the lifestyle.

Because the motivation to look better for an event is fleeting. Plus, honestly, while it can get you started, it isn’t very good motivation because you aren’t addressing the real issues of FEELING BETTER about yourself and becoming more confident.

Falling in love with the program and setting other goals is what makes you stick with the healthy habits long-term – it is what makes the process fun.

If you don’t enjoy the journey, you aren’t going to stick with your program very long.

And, as I mentioned above, the long-term is what leads to true results and you not only looking, but also feeling, the way you want to feel.

So stop looking for a short-term solution and figure out something you love that makes you feel good. Because that is what eating clean and working out should do – they should make you FEEL BETTER and be more confident.

Shoot…They can also, and SHOULD also, be FUN!

So how do you strike a balance? How have you made the process of working toward your goals fun? How did you fall in love with the lifestyle!?!