Wow...if someone had the 100% effective answer to this question, they would be very, very wealthy
Here are some things to try:
1. JUST DO IT. Even if you don't feel like it. Even if you think you are too tired. Even if you have a million other excuses. Set a time to workout, and then do it. After you are finished, you will be happy that you did it. You will be proud of yourself for having done it even when you didn't want to do it. And then that just feeds off of itself. Keep it up for at least a week or two and it will start to become a habit.
2. Watch something inspiring on TV. Watching the recent Olympic trials has really motivated me lately. Not that I am even close to that level, but all the athletes are so inspiring!
3. Get a workout partner (but be careful not to get someone that will end up slacking). Working out with someone else can make the time go by faster and can even bring a little competition into the mix.
4. Plan a trip centered around exercise. For example, hiking in the Grand Canyon (or some other difficult hiking region). Going to see Cathe (this one worked for me). A health spa (but be careful to choose one that is actually exercise centered and not just a "weight loss" place). Something like Canyon Ranch, etc.
5. Try a new activity. Maybe you are bored with your previous workout activities. Trying something new can spark your interest again.
6. Get some new workout clothes. Set them out before you go to bed (if you plan to workout in the morning).
7. Consider the alternative. What is the alternative to working out? How will you feel about choosing that path? For me, I don't like the way I feel about myself if I choose to stay inactive. So, to avoid that feeling, I will workout and am always happy that I did.'
8. Read a motivating book.
9. Listen to some motivating music (whatever gets you moving).
10. Keep a journal of workouts/nutrition/feelings to keep track of where you've been and how far along you've come.
The bottom line is that you just have to get moving and stay moving. Eventually it WILL become easier and it WILL become a habit and you WILL begin to enjoy it. But it IS difficult at first. Just know that you can do it.
One of the things that I used to tell myself when I was just starting out was "If Oprah can run a marathon, I can do anything!"
Good luck and stay positive! You can do it!
Shonie
