I am going to spotlight some people I know who are very busy and still find time to exercise. I hope to inspire some readers to do just that: make exercise a priority. I believe that what we do in life is all a matter of priorities. There are important things to consider: family, work, kids’ activities, exercise, yard work, and hobbies. Balancing your schedule so that you have time to exercise is essential for a healthy lifestyle.
Liz Lareau is a partner at Bawden & Lareau Public Relations. She works full time taking care of PR clients and their related projects. She is also the mother of four children who range in age from 3-12. Her husband is a local attorney who runs a martial arts school. Family activities include YMCA pre-school events, piano and choir recitals, summer camps, lots and lots of baseball games, church events, and martial arts tournaments. Are you as exhausted as I am just reading about Liz’ life? She has double the kids that I have and works double the hours. She’s my hero.
But here’s the kicker: Liz is training for the Quad City Marathon this fall. That’s right, 26.2 miles which will require some long runs on the weekend (and I mean long in both time and distance). How in the world does Liz juggle it all? She makes exercise a priority. I’m sure she doesn’t find herself sitting at home with nothing to do. Ever. So she carves out time for herself and her goals. In September Liz will be a “Marathon Mom” and I’m certain of it. Liz has already completed two half marathons, so she is well on her way.
As a mom, it’s so important to take time for yourself. I often tell my 5-year-old daughter Lily that if I can get a run in then I will be in a much better mood. Lily always considers this and then says, “Ok, you should go then.” Exercise is a time for you…and will help you handle the stress of life better. Just think of exercise as a time when you don’t have to get anyone a snack or drink and you can think about anything you please (and listen to your music instead of Miley Cyrus or Selena Gomez).
Liz has the following to say about priorities, “I have certainly learned there is no secret to having it all and pursuing the holy grail of “balance,” we just all make different sacrifices based on our priorities.” Liz and I both hope our daughters will learn to live for family, community, health, and peace. Now doesn’t that sound like a great world?
p.s. I think you can find time for that bike ride now.