Change Your Identity, Change Your Consistency

Most people struggle to exercise. In fact, according to the CDC, only about 24.2% of U.S. adults meet both the recommended guidelines for aerobic and strength training.

‍

There are many reasons for this, and a big one is MOTIVATION. 

‍

I’ve said numerous times that motivation is an emotion. Motivation fades, life gets busy, and willpower only lasts so long. The most avid exercisers don't always feel motivated.

So, what’s the key to making exercise a consistent part of your life? 

‍

A recent review of 62 studies found something really interesting: people who see themselves as “exercisers” are 44% more likely to work out consistently. In other words, when exercise becomes part of who you are  - not just something you do - you stop fighting with yourself to make it happen.

‍

The researchers explained that our brains crave alignment between who we believe we are and what we do. When those two things don’t match, it creates tension. So once you see yourself as “a person who trains,” skipping a workout actually feels off, like forgetting to brush your teeth.

The real secret to consistency? Identity.

‍

Here’s how to make the shift from trying to work out to being someone who works out:

1. Say it out loud.
   Start using the language of identity.
   “I’m a lifter.” “I’m an active person.” “This is who I am. I’m someone who trains.”
   Words matter. The more you say it, the more your brain believes it. Bonus points if you declare it to others.
2. Collect small wins.
   Every time you show up, no matter how short the workout, you’re building your new identity.
3. Schedule it like a meeting.
   Exercisers don’t “fit it in when they can.” They block time.
   If it’s on your calendar, it’s real — just like a work meeting or doctor’s appointment.
4. Surround yourself with like-minded people.
   When you train with people who share your mindset, it reinforces who you are. That’s why community matters so much.

When exercise becomes part of your identity, you don’t have to rely on motivation. You just live in alignment with who you’ve chosen to be.

‍

And that’s where the real transformation happens — not just in your body, but in how you see yourself.