Prioritizing health can lead to improved productivity, better relationships, and a greater sense of well-being.

Health is one of the most foundational aspects of life, and its importance can't really be overstated. Good health allows you to work, pursue goals, enjoy relationships, and live independently. Without it, even the simplest activities can become difficult or impossible.

The Importance of Health

• Physical Health: Maintaining physical health through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can prevent chronic diseases (like diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers are preventable or manageable with lifestyle choices. Prioritizing health early means fewer complications later), boost energy levels, and enhance mood.

  Physical health is closely tied to mental health. Regular exercise, good nutrition, and quality sleep improve mood, reduce anxiety, and increase focus. Conversely, poor health can contribute to depression, stress, and cognitive decline.

• Mental Health: Mental well-being is deeply interconnected with physical health, and practices like meditation, mindfulness, and strong social connections are among the most effective ways to nurture it.

  Mental well-being includes emotional balance, self-esteem, a sense of purpose, and the ability to handle stress. When your mental well-being is strong your immune system functions better, you're more productive and creative, you're less likely to engage in harmful habits (e.g., smoking, overeating, etc...)

• Long-term Benefits: Benefits of treating your health (physical and mental) as a priority provide things such as increased longevity, improved quality of life, and reduced healthcare costs.

  Living longer is one thing — living well is another. Health gives you the energy and vitality to enjoy your life, whether that means traveling, playing with your kids, or simply waking up pain-free.

  Poor health can be expensive — through medical bills, lost work, or long-term care. Investing in health (through nutrition, exercise, preventive care) often saves money over time.

Making Time for Health

• Prioritization: Reframe health as an asset, not a chore. Instead of seeing health habits as obligations, see them as investments in your future self. Shift from "I have to" --> "I get to", which can make a huge difference.

  Connect your health goals to your personal values. (Don't have defined health goals, see the 7 Day Accountability Program for assistance in getting you started)

• Scheduling: Start small and build consistency with integrating health-related activities into your daily schedule, such as setting specific times for exercise, meal preparation, and relaxation. Ideas include taking a 5-10minute walk and gradually build up time and distance from there, swap out unhealthy foods and drinks for healthier options, and focus on breathing to reduce stress.

  It's always easier when you surround yourself with healthy influences. Even if you just follow health-positive accounts and podcasts can shift your mindset. Purposefully and mindfully create your environment.

• Consistency: Consistency is important in maintaining healthy habits and small, regular efforts can lead to significant improvements over time. With that being said, be okay with accepting imperfection!

Things to Give Up

Have a "something is better than nothing" mindset on this. A 10 minute walk is better than no walk.

The key to making room for health isn't about adding more, but letting go of what no longer serves you. Drop the idea that health takes too much time, because it doesn't have to.

• Unproductive Screen Time: Reduce time spent on social media, excessive TV watching, or aimless internet browsing/doom scrolling.

• Unhealthy Habits: Identify habits like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or junk food intake that can be minimized or eliminated to improve health.

• Overcommitment: Evaluate your commitments and let go of activities that do not align with your health goals or add unnecessary stress. It is okay to say no.

Practical Tips for Incorporating Health into Daily Life

• Routine: Create a routine that works for you. Whether you're working out in the day, afternoon, or evening, it doesn't matter as long as it gets done.

• Active Breaks: Take short, active breaks during work hours to stretch, walk, or do quick exercises (like squats and pushups).

• Mindful Eating: Promote mindful eating practices, such as savoring meals and avoiding multitasking while eating.

• Sleep Hygiene: Have a regular sleep schedule and ensure your sleeping environment is optimal for sleep (no tv, have it cool and dark, etc...).

Conclusion

Making time for health is a personal choice that requires commitment and effort. You can't always add health into your life, you often have to make space for it by removing what drains you. It's less about restriction and more about clearing the way for what really matters.

It is completely achievable for everyone, just start with small steps and small changes. Incorporate new habits throughout the day (starting with 1) by tying it to a habit you already do (get up to use the restroom in the morning, brush your teeth and take then take 5 deep breaths). There will be a profound impact on your life and your future when you stay consistent. 

If you find yourself needing help to keep on track and/or to even determine where to begin, start with the 7 Day Accountability Program.