I can think of a thousand reasons not to exercise: too busy, too tired, too boring, even too stressful (which defeats the purpose). Here are some tips that help me to get up and get moving!
1. Put yourself on your “to-do” list. On my grand to-do list today was a dance class, just for me. As mothers, we must care for ourselves with the same love and gentility that we give to others. Where are YOU on your to-do list today? If you’re not there, I’d challenge you to make yourself a priority. It’s not selfish; it’s self-care! Exercising gives us the physical and mental energy we need to be fully present to those we love. There’s truth to these lyrics: “If mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy . . .”
2. Do something that brings you joy. I happen to love dance. But maybe for you, it’s tennis, swimming, or kick-boxing. Do something that puts a smile on your face. If you love the outdoors, ride your bike or go for a hike. Exercising isn’t meant to be drudgery, but we’ve made it just that. It’s not just about losing weight, although working off those brownies isn’t a bad thing. In truth, it’s about getting the blood going, recharging our batteries, and having FUN.
3. Call a friend. Friends hold us accountable. If I have committed to a friend, I am far less likely to bail out and let her down, as I would myself. Sad, but true. If we are meeting at the park at 5 p.m., I’ll be there . . .fashionably late, as always.
4. Don’t beat yourself up. Do you ever notice that New Years’ Resolutions never work? That’s because we create goals that we can’t meet, and the minute we fall off track, we lose faith and give up. Maybe next year. I’m too hard on myself and need to set realistic expectations. I’d rather commit to dance twice a week and actually do it, than set myself up for failure. Be gentle. Acknowledge what you DO, rather than what you don’t do.
5. Just Do It! As much as I love to dance, there are days when I don’t want to go. I’m too tired. I’m too busy. I’m mentally exhausted, whatever. But it is in these moments when I most need to exercise, to just do it. On these days, I dig deep and push myself and go, and I’m always thankful that I did.
Mir says:
This was very inspirational. And you’re so right about how you are always thankful after you’ve pushed yourself to just do it. Having an adorable puppy helps too
June 23, 2009 at 6:11 pm
Sarah says:
Pretty nice post. I just came across your blog and wanted to say
that I’ve really liked reading your blog posts. Anyway
I’ll be subscribing to your blog and I hope you post again soon!
June 23, 2009 at 10:34 pm
Faith says:
I’m joining Golds Gym! Wish we lived closer, you would be my #1 workout/dance buddy!! I love how i feel after a great workout!!
June 25, 2009 at 2:29 pm
Sarah says:
I work out with Justin and on top of it being good time for us to be together, it does hold me accountable. Head to the gym and work hard, sweat and we always feel great! That said, the most important part of our workouts are when we encourage each other to work a little harder or congratulate each other on what we have accomplished!
June 28, 2009 at 3:39 pm