There’s pressure to be healthy lingering all throughout our daily lives. Whether we see it on the TV, in a magazine or social media, there seems to be a push to live a “better and more fulfilling lifestyle.” Everyone has their own opinion on what health is and why it matters, which can be overwhelming, but a the same time, that’s the beauty in it. We are able to piece together what we find valuable to create a lifestyle that works best for us. I prioritize my health so I can work and travel as efficiently as possible.
Sorting Priorities
I wasn’t always into being “healthy,” nor did I really understand it until I was in my mid-twenties. I went from being the heaviest weight in my life to the fittest I’ve ever been within a 5 year span. There’s definitely something to be said about the mental clarity you start to experience in your twenties. Not saying I know everything (I’m far from it), but I got to a point where I wanted to be honest with myself about my goals. This is where my passion for health emerged.
Why I Stay Healthy for Work
It was this clarity that helped me progress to the mental and physical state I am in now. Eating cleaner, fresher foods while maintaining a substantial (not rigorous) exercise regimen has allowed me to feel my best when I’m at work or traveling. Here are just a few of the reasons why I prioritize my health:
- Stamina. I can’t tell you how many events and trade shows I’ve been to where I’m on my feet (standing, walking and sometimes—literally—running) for up to 8 hours a day. Whatever the agenda might be, it’s so important to be prepared for long days. At a conference, it’s the person who pulls it together and makes it out for dinner to network with others who’s going to create more opportunities for themself—not the person sitting in their hotel room who “just didn’t feel up to it.” Whether it be diet, sleep, or exercise, put some thought into what helps you operate most efficiently and give your body what it needs to get the most out of your trips.
- Presence. When I maintain a diet filled with the vitamins and nutrients my body needs, I’m ready to function to my best ability. Maintaining mental clarity is one of my biggest challenges while traveling, but if I make an effort, it’s a total game changer. When I eat well, I feel well. When I feel well, I am able to connect with others better and do my job thoroughly. Pay attention to what gives you energy versus what takes it away. It can be something as small as opting for a salad at lunch instead of a heavy meal that’s going to bog you down. When you care for your body, you’re going to feel good inside and out, giving you the opportunity to be more present in the work you do.
- Respect. Self discipline has been the most difficult skill for me to practice in my daily life, but let me tell you—I’ve gained a lot of respect from it. Eating well and taking time to strengthen your body is a form of self love and self respect. You radiate that positivity when you look and feel good, which summons respect from others. It’s not easy to eat well and workout all the time (still something I have to work on), but it definitely shows you care and others will respect you for that.
Finding What Works for You
Many things will come and go in your life, but your health is something you can always hold on to. I am very fortunate to have been born healthy and I don’t take a single day for granted. Again, everyone has their own opinion on what “healthy” looks like to them, and that’s wonderful. Find what works best for you and stick to it so you are able to look and feel your best when it’s your time to shine.
