It used to be that the one consistent thing in my life was exercise. But I must admit, I was totally neurotic about it. My belief was that if I didn’t lift weights six days a week and do aerobic activity daily, then I’d get fat. This rule applied even when I was vacationing in faraway lands. It was definitely not coming from inspiration.
I was just as neurotic about how I ate. No fat was allowed. I was very focused on getting enough protein and fiber. It was a lot of work to stay fit. But I was not emotionally healthy. Peace of mind was not on my radar.
Looking back at my work practices during that time, they were similar. I was always in action, felt stressed, and was afraid that my income would dwindle if I didn’t complete my enormous task list every day.
The way I relate to my body now is totally different. I eat what I feel guided to eat. (I probably intake more calories than most men.)
I take 20- to 30-minute walks most days and lift weights or do yoga several times a week. I have no guilt about missing days. In fact, I feel healthier now than ever. Once in a while a health issue will pop up when I’m in angst over something in my life.
I relate to my business totally different now, too. I never work more than 40 hours a week, mostly about 30. My income continues to increase, not dwindle. I keep very short lists of actions, and I’ve eradicated anything from my list that isn’t a “hell yes.”
Do you see the parallels? How you relate to your body and health is often a direct reflection of how you relate to success. I don’t think that everyone should have a strict exercise regimen. But I do know that people who have a daily practice that connects their mind and body are the people who thrive.
If you take time out, even ten minutes, to move in your body or simply be aware of your breath, you’ll see improved results in your business and personal life.
My friend and colleague David DiFrancesco is a fitness expert with a brilliant scientific mind. He told me years ago that there are more than sufficient statistics to prove that executives who are the fittest are also the most successful in their business or careers.
My hunch is that they take time out to pay attention to their body, mind, and balance. They also know it’s important to take time out for themselves so they can be more energetic in their work.
If you have a health practice, you most likely have other practices that keep you grounded and tapped into your creativity and strengths.
Do you have a practice that supports your body? Do you do it for enjoyment or out of fear? Take inventory on the way you relate to your body and how you relate to your work. Notice any similarities. Make any necessary changes so that you have the best of both worlds.
If you want a way to have better health without giving up what you like or feeling depleted, David and I created a self-guided program called Infallible Health. It’s truly revolutionary and has helped hundreds of our clients. He’s the science guy, and I’m the Law of Attraction gal. A perfect match!