Do you really not have enough strategies? Or are you not motivated?

Many people struggle with implementing healthy behaviours such as eating well, often attributing their difficulties to inadequate strategies or techniques. However, as a therapist I often see the fundamental issue frequently lies not in the approach taken, but in the underlying motivation driving the behaviour.

The Strategy Trap

When people encounter obstacles in maintaining exercise routines, they commonly seek new methods, programmes, or strategies. This search for the "perfect" approach can become a perpetual cycle, where individuals continuously experiment with different techniques whilst overlooking the core issue. The assumption that a better strategy will solve the problem often masks deeper motivational conflicts.

Competing Priorities and Values

The reality is that most people possess some level of desire to exercise … whether for fitness, health, or aesthetic reasons. However, this motivation often competes with other valued activities and priorities. Time spent exercising means less time available for:

- Quality moments with partners and family
- Rest and recovery or household chores
- Entertainment and leisure activities

People want to be able to eat well, without putting in the effort, time and energy it will take.

The Role of Stakes in Motivation

Motivation typically intensifies when the stakes become sufficiently high. This occurs in situations where:

- Significant financial incentives are present
- Health consequences become severe, with medical professionals emphasising urgency
- External pressures create compelling reasons for change

Reframing the Approach

Recognising that motivation, rather than strategy, is often the primary barrier. Think about what percentage of you actually wants to change, vs doesn’t. Think about how you in a year might feel if you do and don’t change. Think about the pros and cons of change. It’s okay not to change, but take ownership and responsibility for this.


Clinical Implications

For practitioners working with clients on behaviour change, it’s important to explore motivational factors before introducing new strategies.

This approach acknowledges that successful behaviour change often requires alignment between stated goals and genuine priorities, rather than simply finding the right technique or method.

Rebecca Anderson is a clinical psychologist based in Sydney Australia for Navigate Psychology

Photo by Chris Lawton on Unsplash