I am NOT a runner! When I was in my 20’s I used to meet a good friend who attended the
church where I served as Minister of Youth and Music. He was also a local Air Force Recruiter. He was in great shape and was an avid
runner. He invited me to join him three
days a week in the early morning for a mile run at a local track around the
football field at a nearby school.
I was
faithful for 6 months to this endeavor but grew tired of coming home and being
sick on my stomach each morning we ran. I thought I would leave that behind –
but never did. I hate to run! Sometimes
now my knees “crunch” when I walk up stairs.
But I have become an avid walker
and work to meet my Fitbit goals each week.
I have come to the conclusion that it’s a necessary discipline
for a healthy leader. If you aren’t currently an active exerciser, I have even
more practical, firsthand experience to encourage you to begin.
Here are 7 reasons I need to exercise:
Forced down time – I discovered that when
I exercise — is one of the few times each day where I am not answering emails,
taking phone calls, or doing something that requires mental power. Exercise
forces me to be still — or — well, you know what I mean. My mind is cleared to
pray more — to think more.
Physical health – I am better able
to maintain my weight when I walk. I
feel better. I sleep better. My blood pressure tests lower. The doctor’s office
loves taking my vitals when I am in a regular exercise routine.
Mental stimulation –
My best ideas come while I am walking. I suppose because my body is energized
and I’m free from other distractions, I’m so creative while I exercise.
Longevity – Long days are nothing for
me when I am in a healthy discipline. It seems counter-intuitive, but I have
more energy in the day — not less — when I’m exercising regularly.
Maximum effectiveness –
Exercise — while it seems to take time out of my day — actually ends up being
the most effective use of my time. It increases my productivity and gives me a
better overall attitude towards my work (and life). It’s powerful enough — I’ve
learned from experience — that on my busiest days I try to break away and
exercise in the middle of the day. The fastest way for me to get out of a
productivity slump is to step away from the “work” and go for a short (or long) walk around the church.
Eat with less worry – I
enjoy food. A lot. People will often make a comment I must not enjoy food as
much as they do because I seem to maintain my weight. The reality is they’ve
never seen me eat. I don’t think you can totally ignore your diet regardless of
how much you exercise. I try to be healthier in most of my choices, and I do
discipline what I eat (wish I was better at how much), but I pretty much eat
what I want. I’m certainly never hungry long. Walking affords me less guilt in my diet and the
occasional splurges I enjoy.
Stress reduction – I find if I’m
especially stressed a good sweat gives me a calmer perspective. It’s an
excellent way to decompress.
I’m not an avid runner or exercise “nut”. I sometimes wonder if I will ever take part
in a Marathon – right now I think not.
But each month I feel stronger and work hard toward my weight goal and walking
routine. By the way – My wife Sharron is a true role model for me. She is very consistent in her walking and
often puts me to shame.
Do you have a regular routine of exercise?
It
doesn’t have to be running, or even walking, but it should be something. Of
course, you should always check with your doctor before you start something
extreme, but I’ve never had a doctor who didn’t value some form of exercise.
If you are not regularly exercising — especially if you’re a
leader — answer this question:
Considering the stress in your life, and how productive you
hope to be with your life, could beginning the discipline of exercise be one of
the missing ingredients?
Let me be a voice of encouragement to you. Find the exercise
routine which works best for you, discipline yourself for 30-40 days, and then
enjoy the lifetime of benefits.
Inspiration and portion of this post from a mentor - Ron Edmondson.
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