A common theme we’ve all noticed, whether it’s within ourselves or our friends, is that it’s not desire or motivation that gets in the way of adopting an active lifestyle – it’s time.
With a packed schedule and busy job, most of us barely have time to cook up a nice meal or sit down for a long dinner – and when we do, we’re much too tired to entertain the idea of getting back up and exercising.
If we aren't careful, our suffocating schedules and all-round stress can get the better of our physical, mental and emotional health. It’s important to plan things out a little smarter, and prioritize our habits a little bit more in order to prevent a chronic dose of “I don’t have any time, ever”.
Here are five easy, effective ways to hit refresh on your week and energy levels:
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Take a look at your commitments – What have you taken on? Is it more than you can handle? Why have you taken it on? So many of us spread ourselves too thin, leaving next to no energy to invest in our projects and passions, let alone in ourselves. Be honest with yourself and see if there’s even one thing you can take off your plate to free up some time.
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Plan out your time wisely – Procrastination is common, and honestly, not always the worst thing in the world. But if you’re taking three hours to complete a task you could easily have done in an hour and a half, you’re wasting precious time that could be allocated elsewhere (like working out!)
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Consider waking up earlier – This one isn’t for those of you who are up before the sun already to get to work – but if you find yourself waking up at 8am or later each morning (and can get to sleep at a reasonable time!), look into setting that alarm clock a little earlier. Working out in the morning is a great way to boost your mood, metabolism, productivity and energy for the rest of the day, and once it’s out of the way, you don’t have to worry about it!
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Tick off two things at once – We aren’t suggesting you start doing squats while you’re at work (although maybe not a bad idea?), but things like social outings with friends, getting the shopping done, or commuting to the office can all be arranged and planned in a way that gets you moving. Suggest that your friends all go hiking together this weekend, walk rather than drive to your local shops, or cycle to the office to skip the traffic between the cars.
- Tell someone about your goal -- Whatever your goal is, make it known. Do you want to lose weight, work out more, stress less, spend more time with your family or focus on your own emotional well-being? Then it's time to own your goal. Telling other people about your goal will keep you more accountable to it, as they ask you how're you're going, and as you get to celebrate each success.
We understand that there are days, or weeks, where you truly just don’t have time – and that’s okay! The real key to #GettingOutThere is balance, and knowing that the outdoors is a part of your life, not the whole.
Manipulating your schedule to squeeze in the time to move and de-stress is important, but you need to find the time and place that works for you. Take a step back, turn off your phone for half an hour, and simply reassess – you’ll be amazed how much better you feel once you make yourself a priority, too.