Dear Just Be: 14 days into my new workout routine and I'm already starting to lose interest. Any tips on staying motivated?

Funny how it can take about 6 weeks to make something a routine or habit but so how quickly we can fall "off the bandwagon." If working out was something you just started, for a New Years resolution perhaps, note that you are 1/3 of the way to making your routine a habit. That's not too bad is it? In the overall scheme of life, doing something for 1 more month won't be so bad, will it? And by then, who knows, it just may be a habit and enjoyable!

If you need a bit more motivation try putting Post-It notes around your home with encouraging & supportive words. Even tack one to your alarm clock so that when you are tempted to hit snooze and sleep in instead of hitting the gym, you'll see those words you wrote to yourself and that may be the small nudge you need to get out of bed.

Set small goals for yourself. If you are determined to lose weight, determine a realistic weekly/monthly goal and then reward yourself with a small treat - take in a movie, sleep in an extra day, buy a new blouse or pair of jeans, etc. when you reach your goal. That will motivate you to stick to your plan so you can reach your next goal. Also, the nice thing with small goals is that they are more easily attainable and don't seem so overwhelming.

Track your workouts. Personally, I am training for a triathlon later this year. I track how many miles I log in the swimming pool, walking/running and on the bike. I keep track of the miles in an Excel spreadsheet- that way I can truly see what I am doing each day, week and month towards my goal.

More ideas include:
1. Take a photo of yourself and have it altered at a photo shop to show yourself what you would look like 10, 20, 50 pounds lighter.
2.Work out with a friend, your dog, or if you can afford it -a personal trainer. Being held accountable to someone other than yourself may help.
3. If you are an avid reader or TV watcher, allow yourself to enjoy these activities only while you are working out (on a stationary bike, treadmill, elliptical machine, etc.)
4. Put your workouts on your calendar and plan for them. You wouldn't miss a dentist appointment or haircut would you? Keep to your workout schedule as you would any other important event on your calendar. After all, aren't YOU important?
5. Are you on a budget? Then staying in shape will keep your clothes fitting longer and you won't need to replace them. Also, if you are healthy you'll save money on doctor bills, medications, etc.

And finally, remember you currently are keeping to your goal - you aren't just trying - you are doing! So give yourself a pay on the back and keep it up!