I want to talk about the ‘how’ and the ‘why’ it’s important to make your health your priority…
For quite a while now I’ve tried to prioritise my health. That means a healthy lifestyle, mindful eating, challenging and regular training – all of which some may consider to be quite selfish – investing so much time and energy into myself.
I have mentioned before in my articles that the tipping point for me was five years ago when I came home from work at Christmas and told my wife I needed to quit my job. I was physically and mentally bringing work home every evening. Looking back it felt like I was drowning, I couldn’t see the side and certainly couldn’t see a way out.
One of the first things I noticed was that with the stresses of work, a new house, a new baby and other commitments I had let my health slide. My situation is not unique, we’ve all been in situations where we know we are at a crossroads.
At this time I wasn’t sleeping, eating or training properly. I wasn’t doing anything well and therefore not allowing myself to recover properly. I was tired and seriously concerned for the first time in my life that I might get sick, properly sick. That was something I could do properly!
Ever since that Christmas period I have tried place my health in the top three of my priorities for life. At times, to the outside looking in, my actions may appear to be selfish. Trust me they’re not.
Put yourself at the top of your list, prioritise your health, and allow the results to shine through.
Do this and I guarantee you will have better relationships, more impressive performances at work, at home and in the sports arena. Wherever your skills are required, you will definitely perform better.
Put yourself first and you will be of much more value to those around you. That’s why it’s not selfish. Being the best version of yourself means you can be of more use to everyone around you who matters.
So what do good health habits look like for me today?
- Journalling
- Meditation
- Cold water
- Exercise six times a week
- Coaches
- Races
- Challenges
As a result of this my wife and children notice:
- Happier and better dad/husband
- More energy
- Better sense of presence
- Harder worker
- Better example
Trust me, this is a two way street. My wife and I work hard to allow time for each other’s training, recovery and competition. It’s important enough to us to do this.
If you don’t make time for your wellness, you’ll be forced to make time for your illness and no one wants that.
