So much of the advice out there about success focuses solely on results. However, the impact of pursuing success on the person takes a backseat in these discussions. After all, “no pain, no gain” is a famous catchphrase for the entrepreneurial space. However, strict adherence to a toxic mindset of total success may cost you everything. Keeping yourself physically and mentally healthy while pursuing success is just as important when it comes to peak performance.
Of course, self-care and success are not mutually exclusive concepts. A person with a healthy body and mind will be more likely to find the success they crave. That said, it’s no cakewalk. Finding the right path between work and self-care can be intimidating. Even so, it’s a worthy pursuit that will eventually pay itself back via enhanced mental and physical fortitude.
Progress, Success, and Physicality
Regardless of your career, moving around should be a part of your routine. One of the most subtle causes of stress is the physical toll that an unhealthy routine has on your body. An unhealthy routine takes many forms, but there are two extremes to watch out for.
Sedentary Lifestyle
A sedentary lifestyle has you sitting around or lying down or your average day. As corporate jobs opt for the desk and remote work becoming more viable, more people have inadvertently started to lead sedentary lifestyles. The lack of exercise with such a routine means several health problems slowly manifest. These include but are not limited to:
- Weight fluctuations
- Muscle atrophy
- Bone weakening
- Affected metabolism
- Weak immune system
- Poor blood circulation
- Hormonal imbalance
- Joint stiffness
High Strung Workaholic
People who move around too much and leave no room for rest are negatively affected more than they realize. This type of worker has no “pause” button. These people dedicate every second to work, exercise, or travel. Sleep often takes a backseat, and that lies as the central problem. Sleep is integral for reaping the benefits of exercise, and without it, you’re subject to the same issues as sedentary people.
Tips for Balancing Physical Health and Success
Schedule Regular Exercise
Allocate time in your schedule for regular physical activity. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Set Realistic Goals
Set achievable goals for both your physical health and professional success. Break them down into smaller, manageable tasks, and regularly track progress. Celebrate your achievements along the way to stay motivated.
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Incorporate Movement Into Your Day
Find ways to stay active throughout the day, especially for a sedentary job. Take short breaks to stretch, have a quick walk, use a standing desk, or incorporate exercise into your commute by walking or biking.
Stay Consistent
Maintaining both physical health and professional success requires consistency. Make healthy habits a routine, and commit to them even when you’re busy or facing challenges.
Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to your body’s signals and adjust your routine as needed. If you’re feeling tired or run down, prioritize rest and recovery. Fueling your body with easy-to-make healthy snacks is essential for maintaining a balanced diet and optimal performance. Pushing yourself too hard can lead to burnout and negatively impact your health and performance.
Success Starts in The Mind
Mental health, despite the strides made in recent years, continues to be a controversial topic among professional circles. While the effects of improving physical health are readily noticeable, mental health isn’t so tangible. Mental health is just as important as physical health for achieving success.
Self-Care First
Make self-care a priority in your daily routine. Self-care is as non-negotiable for success as starting capital. Sleep properly, eat nutritious meals, and stay hydrated. Other activities, such as reading books aligned with your desired lifestyle, can provide insights into thriving holistically. For instance, if you’re seeking a more balanced remote life, you might read books for digital nomads, which offer valuable advice you can implement in your own life.
Mindful Meditation
Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga into your daily routine to manage stress and increase self-awareness. These practices can help reduce anxiety and improve your ability to focus and make clear decisions.
Establish Boundaries
Set boundaries to protect your mental health and well-being. Learn to say no to commitments that overwhelm you or interfere with your self-care routine. Prioritize your needs and make time for activities that recharge and energize you.
Seek Support
Reach out to friends, family members, or a therapist for support when you’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling with your mental health. A healthy support system can provide encouragement, guidance, and perspective during challenging times.
Practice Time Management
Efficiently manage your time to fit in both work and exercise. Use productivity techniques such as the Pomodoro Technique or time blocking to maximize your productivity during work hours, allowing you to carve out time for physical activity.
Final Thoughts
To be a successful person, you must first be a capable person. That means having the ability to stay healthy both physically and mentally. Prepare your mind and body for the rigors that consistent success brings. Acknowledge that a better future requires a better you.
