I ALMOST talked myself out of it!

I had the best intentions. My carefully timed plan was to head to the gym around 10am to swim laps. I needed to keep on schedule, because I had a car maintenance appointment at 1pm. The morning started out easy enough, got the girls off to school, and returned home ready for a few productive hours. Well, then I got “over-involved.” Imagine that! I found myself in a rare moment of laundry inspiration. The loads were flowing, and I was actually putting the clothes away promptly. Sitting at the computer, I was cranking through e-mails, paying a few bills and taking care of Optimom business. And naturally, I had a call from friend and my mom, so I needed to chat a bit.

Time was started to slip away, and the rationalization began. Hmmm, if I go swimming, I’ll have to wash my hair. Should I shower at the gym? No that’s a pain. Maybe I’ll go running instead, but wait, it’s really cold and windy today. Trying to keep on track, I packed my gym bag. But as I started to do the math, there was just no way I had time to get to the gym, shower, fix my hair, grab a bit of lunch, and get to my car appointment. Since I was on a productive, mommy roll, it was looking very practical, rational and time efficient to just keep on trucking with my to-do list and blow off today’s workout. This is just how easily it can happen.

WAIT! I quickly shook some sense into myself and took a close look at the story I had cooked up. NO GOOD! With so much on a mom’s plate, it can happen so easily – to all of us, no matter how disciplined we think we are! I modified my plans, layered up in my favorite cold weather running gear, and sucked it up for a short run. It felt so awesome – certainly better than paying bills! Next time you hear yourself making up a similar story, try to catch yourself in the act before it gets too late! Your body and mind will be invigorated and thank you for the exercise.