When you have nothing to distract yourself from the thought of food, it can feel like a full-time job just to resist snacking. Anyone who has been unemployed (or lacking stimulation at work) can tell you that when you have nothing to do all day, you eat more. Motivation for exercise suffers, and since the effects of boredom and depression can feel very similar, energy will plummet.

So what’s the solution? If you’re unemployed, freelance, or have a job with lots of downtime, it’s best to give yourself some structure. Stay busy and work hard to see more diet success!

fitness jar
1. Make a date. Schedule an appointment that requires you to leave the house every day by 10:00am — even if that means you’re meeting a friend for coffee or a gym date!

2. Put your money where your mouth is. Sign up for a fitness class the night before; holding your spot with your credit card number will keep you from backing out.

3. Get productive. Make a list of things to do every week, and aim high. Start a project or tackle an assignment you’ve been meaning to get done for ages.

4. Be sure you only keep healthy foods in your home or workplace. That way if you start grazing, you’ll at least be doing it on wholesome choices.

5. Ask your boss for more responsibility. Taking on a task or learning a new skill set will keep you busy and focused, plus you’ll look like a go-getter.

6. Start volunteering. Find an organization you care about, and commit to donating some of your time. You’ll be rewarded many times over by staying busy and seeing the good you can do; after all, nothing is as motivating as helping others.

7. Use social media to your advantage. Nothing can suck your brain dry like scrolling through Facebook photos of your high school boyfriend’s wedding. Instead, use them to better yourself. Set up a twitter account to follow inspirational fitness gurus, or create a pinterest board to showcase what inspires you to stay healthy. These platforms can give back in so many ways, but you have to use them appropriately!

Jessi Kneeland is an NYC-based personal trainer. She believes that fitness can show people what they’re made of, including our own Recessionista-in-chief, who’s bum Jessi kicks daily. Check out her blog at http://jessikneeland.wordpress.com/