According to my neurologist, migraines respond well to structure. Â That means I’m supposed to keep a regular sleeping and eating schedule, and also exercise daily. Â The latter is particularly unappealing on my bad days, which is why I enlisted some friends as exercise buddies. Â They hold me accountable, making sure I get out for a jog or a brisk walk every day, without fail. Â If I miss a day, I’ll end up with two furry black monsters bouncing off the walls.
While not everyone has, or wants, a pair of rambunctious dogs, the general principle of making a joint commitment with a friend is a great way to increase your motivation and accountability. Â When you cancel a workout or a study date, you’re not just canceling on yourself (which is often easy, especially when dealing with fatigue and/or pain), but you’re letting someone else down. Â That external force can help keep you on track.
In addition to my canine exercise buddies, I have friends with whom I regularly schedule work sessions and chore days. Â It feels a little silly at times, but it definitely helps, so I do it!
Have you ever used this method? Â Did it work for you? How to maintain motivation is always challenging. Â How do you do it?Â
