As a busy professional, it can be hard to prioritize exercise and movement when life feels overwhelming.
In our heads, we think “it’s just one week” or “I just don’t have the time.”
Years go by and we realize exercise is not only important for physical health, but also for mental health. The great HUGE domino that can tip in a positive OR negative direction.
Regular physical activity can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, boost mood, and increase energy levels.
If you're struggling to make exercise a priority, here are some tips to help you get started:
✅ Reflect on your priorities
Take some time to think about your values and what is most important to you.
What are your long-term goals? How does exercise and movement fit into these goals?
When you're feeling unmotivated, remind yourself of these priorities and how exercise can help you achieve them.
✅ Identify obstacles
Think about what obstacles are preventing you from exercising regularly.
Is it lack of time? Lack of energy? Lack of motivation?
Identify these obstacles and come up with potential solutions.
✅ Plan ahead
Schedule your workouts ahead of time and treat them like any other important appointment.
Plan your workouts for times when you know you will have the most energy and motivation.
If work is often a barrier, try to schedule your workouts around your work schedule.
✅ Start small
It's important to set realistic goals and start small.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, commit to just 10-15 minutes of movement a day.
Gradually increase the time and intensity as you feel more comfortable.
✅ Celebrate small victories
It's important to celebrate the small victories along the way.
Did you go for a walk today? Celebrate that!
Did you take a break from work to stretch? Celebrate that too!
Change takes time and effort.
Be patient with yourself and take it one day at a time.
And if you need help along the way, don't be afraid to ask for it.
-Blake
P.S. I spend every waking moment helping people learn to NOT fall off the exercise wagon, and instead find ways to progress, even at the most hectic times in life. Book a phone call HERE.