Motivation to stay fit can be challenging at times. Especially when school is back in full swing, and schedules become more hectic.

Not to mention, cooler weather and the time change are around the corner.

So, how do you stay motivated?

Encourage your family to join your effort in staying fit by signing up for a fun Halloween walk/run event.

Go to active.com and search for an event near you. Or check with your nearby community center, park, or zoo.

With four weeks until Halloween, now is the time to start training. Schedule short walks or runs during the weekday.

Keep the longer ones for the weekends when you have more time. Start with shorter distances and add more each week.

During the weekday, replace watching television after dinner with training. It’s a change from your routine but only short-term (hopefully, it’ll become a habit for you and your family).

Don’t let the weather ruin your training. Outfit yourself in rain gear when it’s raining, and bundle up when it’s cold. Keep a “no excuse” attitude when it comes to training.

During your training, discuss which costumes you’ll wear for the event. Will you be the Flintstone family? … maybe your favorite Marvel hero or villain? … or maybe an emoji?

Training time will fly by as you share your ideas. It’ll also help build excitement for the event — keeping everyone motivated.

It’ll be hard initially as you adjust your schedule and encourage everyone to participate. Ultimately, you’ll have a memorable experience while keeping you and your family fit.

And who knows, it may become an annual event for you and your family.

(Update to original post from September 29, 2017)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA®, RICP®, is a Managing Director at Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Life is more than money. It’s about living the lifestyle you want and can afford. For that reason, Niv consults with clients on money, life, and work. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant, executive recruiter, and financial advisor. Her services include developing  comprehensive financial plans, divorce financial reviews, and retirement plans. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’”