Whenever I hear people talk about the reasons they can't fit a workout into their day, I keep hearing "there's no time." I believe this is true to some degree (especially for working moms), but let me ask you a few questions. How much time do you spend:
- Watching TV?
- Using the computer at home?
- Gossiping on the phone?
- Going to the movies?
- Going out to dinners and bars (outside of work)?
I'm serious -- write down the actual minutes you spend each week doing all of the above. Now you mean to tell me you can't steal four hours a week from any one of those areas (especially TV watching) or collectively?
I know, I know -- who wants to work out at the crack of dawn, or after a long day of work? No one. What about lunchtime, then? Listen, if you can't find a place in your day to squeeze in 30 minutes to move your body, it's a sad day.
There is time. As a culture, we're just too lazy to put forth the effort to create a slot for exercise. We put more emphasis on our pocketbooks vs. our saddlebags. I don't care who you are -- we're all guilty of talking about wanting to get in shape, but it's only the few who have committed themselves to doing what it takes who make it happen.
Today could be the day you commit yourself to new habits. Are we all tired and wish we had less stress in our lives? Yes, but what's the alternative? That's the real question for me. What is the alternative to taking care of yourself? Nothing. So why are we making excuses? Humans are truly amazing, and we'll deal with what we have to, no matter what. But the reality is, we haven't put our health in the have-to category.
You say you won't have time for your kids? Listen, where do you think our little babies are going to learn their own lifestyle habits from? Bingo -- you. Not school or the neighbor -- you. You don't do them any favors by not making time for your health.
It doesn't take more time to eat healthier. We have to get a grip on fast food, sugary sodas and juices (this includes diet drinks as well), and food out of bags, freezers, and microwaves. This stuff is so bad for you and makes you feel so crappy, we can't allow them to be a regular part of our lives. As an occasional treat, they're great. But for everyday eating, they gotta go!
Let's get out from underneath this confusion and start moving, eating better, and taking care of our number-one asset (besides our loved ones). It can be done. Just take it one step at a time.
Again, I ask you, what's the alternative? I'm not talking about fitting into a size 6/8 or 2/4 -- I'm talking about your health. We can't fake or buy this one. We have to do the work ourselves.
