This past week, my fitness has taken a backseat to some of my other priorities, namely editing my book. I worked one evening and went out one evening, but I spent parts of each evening on my book. I stayed up until at least 11 each night, trying to get through my final round of edits.
With those late nights, early workouts weren't happening. And after work, I was eager to get home and get started on the edits. At least that's how I started the week. But by midweek, I knew I needed more balance. I needed my workouts.
After I reasoned with myself that I could afford to delay book work for an hour or so, I began plotting out my workouts for the rest of the week. Since I know I can easily talk myself out of working out if I go solo, I instant messaged one of my workout buddies at work and told her I would be going to class on Wednesday and working out with her on Thursday. I gave her full permission to lecture me if I didn't stick to it. Luckily, I didn't have to face whatever lecture she would have given me. I followed through on my plans and promise. And I honestly think I was better for it.
Both nights that I worked out, I was more productive on my book edits. Maybe it's my imagination, but I feel like a good, hard sweat session actually gave me the motivation and energy to power through my edits. I also felt like my mind was clearer.
This just illustrates to me how important it is to make time for my fitness. Even if it's only a 30-minute session. Even if it's just a walk during my lunch hour. On my busiest day, surely I can find half an hour to dedicate to my health.
How do you squeeze in workouts when you're busy?
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Last week's workouts
Friday: OffSaturday: Off
Sunday: Yoga at home
Monday: Off
Tuesday: Off
Wednesday: Midday Mix-Up: Legs (30 minutes) + Walking on the indoor track
Thursday: Jillian Michaels 30-Day Shred
I really slacked off this week, but as I mentioned above, I'm working on fitting in more workouts even when my schedule is hectic.
Is a morning workout an option? I'm a fan of evening workouts, but I often do 15 minutes of something before school and it definitely helps prep me for the day ahead. Then it's harder to put off!
ReplyDeleteLearning how to squeeze in exercise is still something I struggle with. I know I need it because when I go without it I start to have physical side effects but I know I also get crabby. Yet, it's something I so easily forego when life gets busy. I wish morning workouts were more of an option, but I start work at 730am and have an hour commute, so by the time I get to the gym, workout, and shower it's a tight squeeze. I'm hoping after a year at my job I can change my hours to a bit later.
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