In this time it often feels impossible to do the things we feel we “should”. Exercise or nutrition or projects we have put off; regardless of how much time we have the smallest tasks seem insurmountable. We can feel paralyzed.
This is normal. This is ok. In fact, there’s nothing that says you have to do these things. Don’t allow someone else’s idea of how life should look color your behavior. If, however, these are things you value it might be important to make inroads. Start small, start at the top.
What is your priority? For many of us that is health. But not just physical health. Our mental health is just as important, especially now. If that means exercise or eating right or scheduling zoom meetings with friends, prioritize that. If that means booking time with a mental health professional (Telehealth is a beautiful technology) make it happen. If it means walks or meditation or more sleep, put your priority there.
Look at your day. When is your mental energy the highest? When do you feel like your decisions are strongest? For me it’s the morning so I try to do the hardest thing first. If that is you, try to schedule your priority then. It’s often hardest to try to make these things happen at the end of a long day.
You aren’t alone. I struggle each day to find the fortitude to train. And training is something that is so intrinsic to me that I normally don’t even think about it. It’s an automatic. But I’m just tired. I also know that it is what grounds me and therefore it is an absolute priority. I can’t compromise.
Find your priority. Think about what you value. And use your strongest times to do the hardest work. Last, don’t let the purveyors of hustle porn shame you into doing something unfulfilling just to be more productive. If ever there was a time to catch up on old episodes of Curb Your Enthusiasm or watch reruns of Seinfeld in your pajamas, it’s now.
