Time, we can’t buy it or make it so how on earth do you add a work out to your already crazy busy schedule? Making time for exercise can be very challenging but thankfully it is not impossible.
The easiest way I’ve found to maintain exercise in my life as a busy, working mom of two little ones- is to make exercise a part of your lifestyle.
Making little, conscious decisions here and there will all add up and go a very long way towards achieving your goals. Now what I mean by incorporating movement into everyday life could be things like;
Taking the stairs instead of an escalator. Taking the kids to the park. Maybe choosing to walk to work instead of driving.
Taking the dog for an extra lap around the block will not only make for a happier pet but will also greatly impact you physically and mentally.
But the biggest impact is that it will also make it part of your normal routine, it will make it that much easier to do without having to give it too much thought. Kind of like sometimes coming home and plopping on the couch to watch tv. We do it without any extra thought. If we too make exercise a part of the normal routine, it will be second nature & easier to stick to long term.
Set yourself up for success. What exactly does that mean? Creating an environment where it facilitates your goals will make them feel so much more achievable. Like waking up 20 minutes earlier than usual for a quick stretch. It could be having your work out clothes laid out and supplements mixed all ready to go. So that when you wake up first thing in the morning, you are ready to go and can spring into action. Making exercise a part of your social life is also such a good way to ensure you do get up and moving. A hike with friends or a date night at the gym are not only a great way to invest and grow relationships, but it also creates a habit and a community. Point being it's all there and ready for you, one less excuse means one more reason to get going!
It all comes down to a personal decision, yes. But that doesn’t mean your life has to revolve around trying to squeeze a work out in here and there. That will eventually just become an annoyance. One more thing, to check off on your to-do list and nobody likes that. let's be honest, there is enough to do already and a limited amount of time.
Seemingly, little but intentional choices will create big, impactful changes in your routine. And that will become the new normal.