I am a mother of 6 (blended family) and I am 35 years old and burned out! I have the tank top, bikini, legs workout from Minna and I have noticed how fit she is, but this is someone who does this all the time. I workout consistently, but not as hard as I used to (Tae Bo). I would like someone to tell me that it is okay to just walk and do weights to stay fit instead of working my .... off everyday. I am too tired. Any encouragement????

Three things to consider for yourself: Keep trying, act in the moment, and be good to yourself

You know, in my experience there are cycles where you can put incredible amounts of energy into something and other points where you are limited in your ability. For me, the seasons affect my level of energy and motivation. Sometimes the stress of work, family and other things impact my desire to stay consistent or committed to my goals. I think a kung fu instructor gave me some strong yet simple advice:

"A little Kung Fu is better than no Kung Fu"

I think sometimes even just getting out for a walk on a day where you have little motivation can have strong impact. If you want to do an intense work out but are struggling to get out the door, maybe forcing yourself to get out and do something is all it will take.

Next, try to balance the planning and execution of your training. It's certainly good to plan what your work out may be but manage your moment in the right now. I have great intentions of exercise I'm going to do for the next three days but I'm really struggling with motivation as I write this. So I'm going to force myself to take a shower, finish my errands for the day, and drink some water so I'll be ready to go for a run this afternoon. It's much easier for me to motivate myself in my "right now" moment than it is my next three days.

Last point: Be patient with yourself. This is the hardest thing to do sometimes but the only way you'll get to the next level. Every spring when I start cross country running I'm so disappointed at how hard it is to do the hills in the park. But by forgiving myself for not being in perfect condition I grant myself the latitude to perform how I do for the day and then try harder the next day. And it's always easier the next day :)

Keep trying, act in the moment, and be good to yourself