I didn’t write a post last week, so I’m now reflecting on the last 14 days. Both weeks, I worked out 3 times, leaning completely on my personal training sessions and Wednesday running/walking group. These accountability structures proved to be a gift, especially because I have been struggling to complete an essay. What a joy to have submitted that essay and also be able to say that I kept exercising!
These past 2 weeks, I’ve been struck by how ruthlessly time flies. Whether you are having a good time or not, doing what you value or not, acheiving what you want or not, time will keep on marching. So, you can easily look up and not have done what you intended. This is why it is so important to put structures in place that increase your likelihood of doing that which aligns with your values and long-term goals, not just what feels urgent from day to day.
Like everyone, I am juggling many responsibilities that have little to do with what is most important to me. So, if I am going to continue prioritizing my health, nurturing my relationships, and writing, I MUST put these things on my schedule before each week begins. There’s nothing new about that idea, and I’ve certainly benefited from having this truth reiterated by Kerry Ann Rockquemore, who runs Faculty Success boot camps and writes a weekly column for Inside Higher Education. But whether you consult materials like that or not, it’s crucial that you make a habit of putting yourself in your calendar and honor those appointments as if you were meeting your boss. After all, you’re meeting someone much more important!
spinach, jasmine rice, steamed carrots, asparagus, black quinoa, roasted kale
Besides relying on scheduled training sessions and group runs, I have also been prioritizing cooking for the week on Sundays so that there’s always something healthy ready. Besides saving money and knowing exactly how my food is prepared, I also feel like I save time while prioritizing my health in ways that no one else can do for me.
Let’s commit to putting what we value most in our schedules before the week and all its demands have a chance to influence what we end up doing.
I love this blog. You say it exactly as I think it. Making the people and things I love first on my calendar. Planning planning planning is the Key.
Oh, I’m so glad, Rasauna! Thanks so much for reading and taking the time to leave a comment here. I love having visible support here whenever I need to re-visit it for a boost! We’re doing this, woman! Thanks for doing it with me!
YES! Failing to plan is planning to fail! Scheduling my workouts like any other important appointment is some of the best advice I have ever received. I just have to be consistent about doing just that. It’s hard for me to ignore if it’s on my calendar. I’m getting better about my meal planning as well. Five days a week I eat a primarily plant based diet, but I allow myself to have whatever I want (in moderation) the other two days. I have a nutritionist helping me with the meal planning which is a big help! Looks like it’s going to be a beautiful week for group runs/walks!
As usual I will be sharing this wonderful blog!
Yes, I’m so grateful that we’re finally getting some mercy with the weather!
I love the food prep idea. I do very well with planning out my workouts but I still struggle with the food thing. I sometimes end up eating whatever is quick and easy when I don’t have the energy by mid/late week to make a proper (healthy) meal. I am also guilty of skipping meals to “make up for” the poor choices I made with previous meals. Neither tactic is wise or good… Thanks for continuing to share! Good stuff.
I’m so happy it resonates, Sarah. Thanks for commenting here! Yes, food can be the biggest challenge. I’m so glad it sounds worth trying! I can definitely tell the difference between those weeks when I’ve done this kind of prep and when I haven’t. I’m starting to see it as a gift to myself!