It’s another new year and another January. Like many, you may be looking at your health and realising it’s not where you want it to be. Life can sometimes feel like a juggling act, balancing careers, family, and personal commitments. Between the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy for your health and fitness goals to take a backseat. But regaining control of your well-being is essential—not just for your physical health but for your mental clarity, energy levels, and long-term happiness. Health is like any good investment, it pays off in the long run, decisions today done consistently will pay off in the long term. Although we are often focused on short terms change or benefits, it’s the consistence over time that brings the largest reward. Although our health should always be a high priority, we often will priortise the needs of those around us such as children, family and work before ourselves.
Why Prioritising Your Health should be a Non-Negotiable
- Increased Energy Levels: Regular exercise and a balanced diet boost energy, helping you keep up with the demands of your lifestyle.
- Stress Management: Physical activity releases endorphins, which help reduce stress, a common issue for women juggling multiple roles.
- Long-Term Health Benefits: Building healthy habits now can prevent chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis later in life.
- Confidence Boost: Feeling strong and capable in your body enhances self-esteem and mental resilience.
Top Tips to Get Back on Track
1. Set Realistic Goals
- Start small—commit to 30 minutes of activity 3–5 times a week.
- Create specific, achievable goals, like running a 5k or attending three fitness classes a week.
2. Find Activities You Love
- When exercise feels fun, it becomes a part of your lifestyle rather than a chore. Exercise doesnt have to be going to the gym. It can include a variety of recreational activities, such as walk, swim, kayak. By making it fun and something we enjoy we are more likely to keep on doing it.
4. Stay Accountable
- Work out with a friend or find a group based activity. More then likely others around you are wanting to get more exercise as well, and do activities with others means we are less likely to prioritize other task.
- Use apps to track progress or hire a personal trainer for tailored guidance, share your goals with those around you to help you keep accountable.
5. Embrace Flexibility
- Life happens. If you miss a workout, don’t sweat it—just get back on track the next day.
- Incorporate movement into your daily routine, like cycling to work or taking the stairs instead of the lift.
6. Nourish Your Body
- Focus on whole, nutrient-rich foods, and avoid overly restrictive diets.
7. Stay Motivated
- Celebrate small wins to keep your spirits high.
- Create a vision board with your fitness goals and why they matter to you.
- Reward yourself with non-food treats, like a new gym outfit or a massage.
Overcoming Common Challenges
- Busy Schedules: Treat workouts as appointments. Slot them into your calendar and stick to them.
- Lack of Motivation: Remind yourself why you started. Joining a supportive community can also provide the boost you need.
- Fatigue: Focus on quality sleep and listen to your body—sometimes rest is the most productive choice
Getting your health back on track doesn’t mean overhauling your life overnight. It’s about taking consistent, manageable steps towards a healthier, happier you. Start small, stay consistent, making change is not easy but remember—you’re not just building a healthier body; you’re setting the foundation for a more fulfilling life for not only yourself but those around you.
So, lace up your sneakers, grab a water bottle, and take that first step. Your journey to better health begins today!
Dr Nicholas Miller
