What’s Really Driving You? Unlocking Your True Motivation

Hello from the Gold Coast of Australia!

Being here has reminded me, once again, how much our surroundings can inspire us. Whether it’s the laid-back Aussie lifestyle, the fresh local fruit, or the way people prioritize time outdoors, healthy habits seem to be a natural part of daily life.

Our 5:30 am beach walks are actually a busy time of day here—everybody is doing it!  I see so many examples of sustainable, feel-good habits in action. It’s a great reminder that true motivation doesn’t come from forcing change—it comes from connecting with what genuinely makes us feel our best.

When it comes to making lasting changes—whether it’s eating better, moving more, or prioritizing sleep—the why behind your goal matters more than the goal itself because if the motivation isn’t coming from deep inside you, it won’t stick.

External goals like “I should eat healthier”, “I need to exercise more", "I need a rest day" sound good, but they don’t always light that inner fire. What does? Feeling strong enough to hike with your grandkids. Having energy that lasts all day. Waking up feeling good in your body and ready for the day ahead...now thats your REAL motivation that will last and allow you to stay accountable to your goals!

Your real motivation isn’t about following the latest trend or someone else’s expectations—it’s about what makes you feel alive. And when you find it, everything shifts. YES!!

 Find Your True Why:

  • Ask yourself ‘why’ five times. Keep digging deeper. You WILL hit an emotional truth.

  • Picture your future self. Close your eyes and visualize your future self. What do you see because of today’s choices?

  • Listen to what excites you. The goals that truly motivate you will feel expansive, not restrictive.

Finding your true motivation makes healthy habits feel natural—not forced. The same goes for what you put in your body. Sustainable choices aren’t about perfection; they’re about what feels good and supports your energy every day. Need some inspiration? Try one of these simple, nourishing ideas:

Through my coaching practice, this is exactly what I focus on—helping my clients tap into their intrinsic motivation and sustainable lifestyle changes so their health and wellness goals truly stick for the long haul.

Wishing you health and happiness from "down under",

 
 

Ready, Set, Slow: Embracing a New Rhythm.

Lately, I’ve been thinking about pace—the way we move through our days, the way we fill our schedules, and how often we actually stop to breathe it all in. As I am traveling now to Australia, I find myself craving a slower rhythm, one that allows for presence, restoration, and deeper connection to myself. Not as easy as its sounds right?

That’s why I was intrigued by Ready, Set, Slow: Bringing Calm to a Busy World by Lee Holden. This book explores the idea that slowing down isn’t about doing less; it’s about shifting how we approach life—moving with ease rather than urgency, with energy rather than exhaustion.


The Power of Slowing Down

We often associate being busy with being productive, but what if the opposite were true? Research shows that when we allow space for rest and intentional slowness, our bodies and minds actually function better ( I think many of us are wired to think the opposite) Stress hormones decrease, digestion improves, and our nervous system moves from overdrive into a place of calm and repair.

For women redefining their prime years, this is a game-changer. It’s about honoring where we are at the moment and making choices that support longevity, health, and joy. That might mean taking a pause before saying yes to something (once again), enjoying a meal without distractions, or allowing for just a few quiet moments in the day instead of rushing from one thing to the next.

Health Benefits of a Slower Pace

Slowing down isn’t just about mental well-being—it has real, measurable effects on health. Here are a few ways it supports overall vitality:

  • Less Stress, More Energy – Chronic stress depletes the body. A slower approach helps balance cortisol levels, leading to more sustained energy.

  • Better Digestion – Eating in a relaxed state improves nutrient absorption and gut health.

  • Deeper Sleep – A calmer nervous system promotes restorative sleep, which is essential for brain function and hormone balance.

  • More Presence, More Joy – When we move through life more mindfully, we experience our days more fully rather than rushing through them.

Taking Slow on the Road

Travel naturally invites us to slow down—we observe more, we experience the world with fresh eyes. My time in Australia will be a reminder to move with more presence, whether that means lingering over a morning cup of coffee or taking long walks by the ocean.

But you don’t need a plane ticket to embrace this shift. Start small:

Where can you invite a little more slow into your days?

Let’s start the conversation. I would love to hear from you!

Cheers, Lisa