I'll admit, I've been slacking with the treadmill lately. There is a lot going on in my personal life that is causing me some stress and I can't seem to get up in the morning (although walking on the treadmill would probably make me feel better). I need to get back on my work out schedule.
One thing I find helpful to keep me motivated and get me back on track is setting goals. If you have a goal you're trying to reach, it gives you a great reason to step onto that treadmill every morning. If you don't have something you're working towards, it's very easy to find an excuse not to work out.
Make sure your goals are reasonable. If you've never run before, you're not going to be able to run for 30 minutes straight in just two weeks. Set goals where you have to push yourself to achieve them, but make sure they are still achievable.
Set a time frame for your goal and make sure it's measurable. “I will lose 5 pounds in three weeks," or “I will run for 20 minutes straight in four weeks." This way you know you've achieved what you set out to do, and can monitor yourself to make sure you stay on pace to reach your goal. You may need to set mini goals or milestones along the way to get you to your main goal.
Tell someone about your goal! They can help to keep you on track, even if it's just asking you how you're doing at reaching your goal. Or if you're training for a 5 km run, maybe they will join you or meet you at the finish line. Friends or family can help you stay accountable to yourself.
I'm throwing it out to the universe and the Internet right now: my goal is to get back on the treadmill, 3 mornings a week. That bridesmaid dress is still waiting for me.