In moments of weakness, we often offer excuses that we later regret. We're too exhausted, stressed, or uninspired to do things we don't want to do because we're too busy, tired, or stressed. Our reasons aren't always valid, yet we often act as though they are. Before I started cleaning, I just had to paint my nails! I couldn't afford to miss those 30 minutes of sleep in order to go to the gym. To get through my work project, I really needed that additional piece of chocolate.

1. Find a partner who will hold you accountable - What qualities do you look for in a good accountability partner? Someone who can both encourage and push you since they understand your skills and shortcomings. Also, someone with whom you like spending time. An accountability partner is looking out for your best interests. She will not allow you to return to your noncommittal ways.

2. Visualize the good things that will happen - Consider going beyond your current apprehension and visualizing the eventual result. Visualizing the long-term benefits will help you persevere through a difficult endeavor. Think on how energized you'll feel after you work out instead of whining about how exhausted you are. 

3. Rejoice in your accomplishments - Celebrate all of your accomplishments, large and little. Extrinsic and intrinsic motivation are the two types of motivation. Extrinsically driven people conduct in order to gain external benefits or avoid punishment. When you're intrinsically motivated, on the other hand, you behave to gain internal benefits. 

4. Keep track of your objectives and progress - The more you track and document your goals and progress, the more likely you are to stick to them. Keeping track of your accomplishments and goals increases your chances of success. 

5. Gather motivational quotations - Keep a collection of motivational quotes on hand for when you need a boost. Reading sensible remarks from individuals you respect can help you maintain perspective. As visual clues to spark your inspiration, compile your favorites and position them where they'll be top of mind—on your phone, desktop, mirror, or refrigerator. Because meaningful statements are linked to your emotions, they cause dopamine, a brain chemical that promotes motivation, to be released. 

6. Introduce some amusement. - While you may not enjoy the exercise (yet), it is beneficial to add some fun to the mix. Running to an enthusiastic song or working beside a friend can both be considered motivational enjoyment.