Motivation, where art thou?

I can come up with 50 excuses not to go to the gym or even walk around the block. I pretty much lack motivation, so when I have to dig deep, I've found these tips helpful:

1. Challenge yourself. I recently changed my outdoor running route to include more hills and tacked on an extra 1/2 mile- and the first time I completed it, I felt like a million bucks. I look forward to this new route, this new challenge. So whether you push yourself to run another mile, bike at more of an incline, or add another 5 minutes to your evening walk, when you achieve the new goal, you'll want to keep going! Just make sure you set realistic goals.

2.Challenge your friends. 3 friends and I just completed a challenge: travel 200 miles over 90 days. The beauty of this is that we track any kind of activity throughout the day, like walking to the subway or steps we take while we're out shopping . When you look it, you realize it adds up!  I use the free Nike fitness app on my iPod for running and walking and mileage counters on the machines at the gym. Of course, you may use Run Keeper or have a FitBit or a regular old pedometer. If you're walking, running, or biking outside, you can always refer to Google maps.

3.  Wear something you feel good in. You deserve something better than that free T shirt you've been holding onto for 7 years. Invest in some quality sweat wicking clothes that actually look a little put together. You don't have to break the bank- Target and Old Navy both offer cute, quality workout clothes at reasonable prices. My favorite running shirt is obscenely bright and cost $10 at H&M. Hey, just cause you're sweating your ass off doesn't mean you can't be cute! If you like the clothes, you'll be more excited to actually wear them. Hopefully to work out in :)

 4. Think of something else. So you got dressed- that's the first step! You still need to remain motivated while active. I just try to keep my mind off it as much as possible. Watch the TV at the gym, draft a work email in your head on a run, make a mental shopping list, think about what you'll make for dinner. Practice what you'd say to Justin Timberlake if you met him in person. Hey, do what you gotta do to make the time pass!

5. Be your own cheerleader. When I hit my 2.5 mile goal is today, I clapped and cheered for myself (and continued to run further). That's right, no shame!

What are your tricks to stay motivated?