Before we really get into this, this is something I hear all the time in this job, I’m too busy to do this and that, life is hectic and I can’t fit it in.
Now I get it, balancing a healthy lifestyle with the demands of a busy schedule can be challenging, but it’s not impossible.
It really isn’t.
Life does sometimes come and kick you in the nads and go haha fuck you, deal with this but does that mean everything has to go to shit.
With a little planning, you can find ways to incorporate fitness and healthy habits into your daily routine.
Remember this though, something is better than nothing.
However, if you are struggling with time management and all that stuff, here are some practical tips to help you fit fitness and a healthy lifestyle into your tornado of a life.
- Prioritize Your Health
Understanding the importance of your health is the first step toward making fitness a priority. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are essential for maintaining physical and mental well-being. You may be running around trying to sort everything out for everyone else, but if you are not taking control or making yourself a priority, you won’t be able to. By recognizing that your health is as important as your other responsibilities, you can motivate yourself to make time for it.
- Plan and Schedule Your Activities
Just as you schedule work meetings and appointments, schedule your workouts and meal prep. This is something we tell our members about, find your non-negotiable, whether it is 2/3 or indeed 4 sessions a week, they get done no matter what. Look at your weekly calendar and identify slots where you can fit in exercise and time for preparing healthy meals. Whether it’s early morning, during lunch breaks, or in the evening, having a set time for these activities increases the likelihood of sticking to them. Also, if something comes up and gets in the way of you doing it then move it, remember the non-negotiable is the non-negotiable, anything above that is a bonus.
- Opt for Short, Effective Workouts
When you’re pressed for time, short but effective workouts can be a game-changer. Even a 20-30 minute workout can be highly effective if done consistently. You don’t have to be spending hours in the gym, you have the perfect bit of kit with you at all times, your body, so if you can’t get out even a 20-minute body weight session is better than sitting on your arse doing fuck all.
- Incorporate Physical Activity into Your Daily Routine
Look for opportunities to add physical activity to your daily routine. Take the stairs instead of the lift, walk or bike to work if possible, and go for a walk at lunchtime. These small changes can add up over time and help you stay active even on the busiest days.
- Meal Prep and Plan Ahead
Planning and prepping your meals in advance can save time and ensure you stick to healthy eating habits. Knowing what is going to be happening will also save you from making those unhealthy choices when pressed for time, we all know half the time as an adult is spending the time asking someone what they want for dinner and just having the same conversation over and over. You could spend a few hours on the weekend preparing meals and snacks for the week. But just having a plan makes the difference.
- Combine Social Activities with Exercise
If you find it challenging to balance social time with fitness, combine the two. Invite friends or family members to join you for a hike, bike ride, paddle board, swim, or whatever it is you do. This not only helps you stay active but also allows you to spend quality time with friends.
- Delegate and Simplify
Being busy often means having too much on your plate. Look for tasks that you can delegate to others or simplify. The art of good management as they say is delegation. This might free up some time that you can then take back for you. Remember, taking care of your health will ultimately make you more efficient and effective in other areas of your life.
- Stay Flexible and Adapt
Life is unpredictable, and sometimes your schedule might not go as planned. Stay flexible and be ready to adapt your routine as needed. If you miss a morning workout, try to fit it in later in the day. The key is to stay committed and not let one missed session derail your overall fitness goals. As I said earlier have that non-negotiable.
- Track Your Progress and Celebrate Success
Keeping track of your workouts, meals, and progress can help keep you motivated. Use a diary, app, or even a simple checklist to record your activities. Celebrate your wins, no matter how small. Recognizing your progress can reinforce the habit and encourage you to keep going.
It is challenging but it is entirely possible to get your fitness working with the right strategies. By making yourself a priority, planning and scheduling your activities, opting for something over nothing, and incorporating physical activity into your daily routine, you can make fitness and healthy living a sustainable part of your life.
Remember, the goal is to create a balanced approach that allows you to stay active and healthy without feeling like it is all too much.
