The Mindset Shift—From “Have To” to “Want To”
Three words—“I want to.” That’s the difference between dragging through a fitness routine and using an exercise motivation mindset, putting joy and energy into every session.
Most people frame exercise as a chore: “I have to work out,” “I have to eat better,” “I have to stretch.”
But shifting to “I want to” energizes both body and spirit, making the whole journey lighter, more enjoyable, and ultimately more sustainable.
Why “I Want To” Matters
Words carry energy. Say both phrases aloud:
- “I have to” feels heavy, pressured, and obligatory.
- “I want to” feels open, motivating, and full of choice.
This isn’t just “woo-woo.” When you reframe your mindset, you give yourself permission to pursue goals with ease rather than guilt. Real progress—in fitness, nutrition, or personal growth—comes from positive motivation, not punishment.
Think about learning a new skill. When one of my clients was studying French, every time he said “I have to practice,” it felt like homework. But when he shifted to “I want to practice,” his energy changed. He found joy in the process and made faster progress. The same applies to fitness and health: mindset fuels results.
Make It Routine
Before each workout, pause and say:
“I want to.”
Try it before stretching, before lifting weights, before stepping into a class. Over time, your body and mind shift from dread to drive. That small, consistent mindset shift compounds, helping you stay consistent, focused, and ready for results.
Mindset + Expert Support = Transformation
Mindset shifts are powerful, but they become even stronger when paired with the right training plan. At SolCore Fitness & Therapy, our personal training and manual therapy programs are built to help you move past resistance, create lasting routines, and enjoy your progress.
As Ekemba Sooh, founder and manual therapist, often says: “The body responds best when the mind and fascia are both aligned.” By combining expert guidance with the right mindset, you can unlock results that last a lifetime.
Ready to Shift Your Mindset?
Next time you catch yourself thinking “I have to,” pause and reframe: “I want to.” Then back it up with action—whether that’s a single stretch, a short workout, or a full training session.
The shift from obligation to choice can transform not just your fitness, but your whole life.
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Hi This is Loretta I was in class with you an Gui.My mom found u out under Claudia Facebook . I really enjoyed your blog as it really came in handy. It was very motivational.I have a frozen shoulder an have missed 19 days of work outs due to a death in my family in Texas. The I want reall
y helped me. I am not on Facebook but you can email me.
I am a hairdresser in la. Got to run Loretta
Thats for reaching out Loretta. I am still studying with Guy and have added the Soma Therapists classes as well. I hope all is well!