By LAURA LEONARD
Doctor of Chiropractic
Los Alamos
There are three types of motivation that drive us to achieve things: extrinsic, intrinsic and addiction. When we are extrinsically motivated, we are driven to achieve so we can get stuff.
Pleasing others, money, being accepted and likes on social media are all extrinsic motivators. Intrinsic motivation on the other hand drives us to achieve for what we feel on the inside. Being satisfied, feeling enjoyment and gaining confidence are powerful feelings we all want to have. Addiction is a tough one because it often overpowers the other two types of motivation. The concepts of emotional eating and comfort food imply addiction as a motivator. Food commercials and junk food in bright containers placed at eye level in the store are designed to make us feel like if we eat it our day will somehow be better. Additives like artificial flavor and color are designed to pump our brain full of the desire to consume more. Bland and boring doesn’t really sell your product all that well especially when it’s next to a bag of Doritos or a case of Coke
Succeeding at losing weight and keeping it off requires overcoming the urge to use food as a reward. External/extrinsic rewards don’t work long term either because more external rewards are needed as each goal is achieved. Intrinsic motivation on the other hand, is proven to work effectively and for a lifetime. It defines how you feel about yourself and your accomplishments. Addiction and external rewards are simple motivators because they are easier for our brain to handle. Intrinsic motivation requires digging deep inside to overcome negative self-talk and feelings of inadequacy. Large life hurdles that affect our ability to feel secure also push us toward becoming intrinsic motivation.
Middle aged people are better at keeping weight off than 20 somethings.Why is this? Middle aged people typically cite new health crises as the main driver for succeeding at losing weight. I have seen this in my patients who have lost large amounts of weight with very restrictive diets and difficult workout routines. When asked how did you stick to it? They always respond with…My family, feeling better and a longer more active life.
What are the two keys to developing intrinsic motivation? Define your passion and make an impact. What will it feel like to be healthy enough to pursue your passion for many years to come? How many people will you help with your weight loss story? The enjoyment and confidence gained by getting stronger and going farther can be immense. The satisfaction of influencing your family members to be healthier and more active is a reward that keeps on giving. Whether it’s 10 pounds or 100, intrinsic motivation works to ensure lasting change.
Dr. Leonard’s practice focuses on posture and performance using a combination of soft tissue release, adjustments and exercise recommendations. She also coaches patients on nutrition, self-care and body awareness so they can manage themselves in between visits. Los Alamos Chiropractic Center is in the Mary Deal Building on Trinity.