Exercise that Entrepreneurs Can Do Despite having a Busy Schedule

When it comes to exercise, we often associate it with physical fitness, strength, and shedding those extra pounds. However, what’s frequently overlooked are the profound mental health benefits that exercise can offer, especially for entrepreneurs. In this article, we’ll delve into the lesser-known advantages of exercise, focusing on how it can significantly enhance the mental well-being of individuals in the entrepreneurial world.

1. Alleviating Depression and Anxiety: 

Doctors often prescribe exercise as a natural remedy for individuals battling depression and anxiety, and it can sometimes outshine pharmaceutical solutions. Exercise triggers the release of neurotransmitters like endorphins, often referred to as “The Feel Good Hormones.” These endorphins naturally elevate mood and overall well-being.

2. Stress Reduction: 

Understanding stress cues is essential, and it’s your brain, not your body, that signals it. Exercise initiates a chemical response known as norepinephrine, derived from dopamine, which dampens the brain’s stress response. Consequently, regular exercise can substantially reduce stress levels, leading to improved mental health over time.

3. Enhancing Sleep Quality: 

Many exercisers can relate to the experience of falling into a deep, peaceful sleep after physical activity. This phenomenon occurs because exercise optimizes body temperature, promoting a calming effect on the mind. However, it’s advisable to avoid exercising too close to bedtime. Consider following a routine of exercising just before your evening meal for optimal results.

4. Cognitive Boost:

 As we age, our cognitive functions may decline, but exercise has the potential to rejuvenate our brains. Cardiovascular exercises like jogging, running, and cycling stimulate neurogenesis, the creation of new brain cells. Furthermore, exercise sharpens memory, enhances thinking abilities, and improves event recall—a vital asset for creating innovative products and services.

5. Fueling Creativity: 

Exercise is a powerful tool for igniting creativity across various domains. It’s not uncommon for creative individuals to engage in physical activity before embarking on their creative pursuits. Exercise not only enhances short-term creativity but also fosters long-term innovative thinking.

6. Enhanced Productivity: 

Exercise can significantly boost productivity, a critical factor for entrepreneurs. Regular physical activity improves focus, time management, and problem-solving skills. It also helps in reducing procrastination tendencies, enabling you to accomplish more in less time.

7. Stress Resilience: 

Entrepreneurship often involves dealing with high levels of stress and uncertainty. Exercise builds mental resilience by training your mind to cope with stress more effectively. Over time, this resilience helps entrepreneurs face challenges with a clearer and calmer mindset.

8. Social Connections: 

Entrepreneurs can sometimes feel isolated in their endeavours. Participating in group exercise classes or team sports provides an opportunity to build social connections and networks, reducing feelings of isolation and fostering a sense of belonging.

Types of Exercise that Entrepreneurs Can Do Despite a Busy Schedule: 

Now that we understand the incredible benefits of exercise let’s explore the types of physical activities that even busy entrepreneurs can incorporate into their routines:

1. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): HIIT workouts are short, intense bursts of exercise followed by brief rest periods. These workouts can be completed in as little as 15-20 minutes and deliver significant cardiovascular and mental health benefits.

2. Desk Exercises: Simple stretches and movements at your desk can help alleviate the physical toll of long working hours. Consider shoulder rolls, leg lifts, and seated twists to keep your body active during work breaks.

3. Walking Meetings: Instead of traditional sit-down meetings, opt for walking meetings. This lets you discuss business matters while getting fresh air and physical activity.

4. Mini Workouts: Throughout the day, take short breaks for mini workouts. These can include push-ups, squats, or planks and can be done in just a few minutes.

5. Home Workouts: Invest in basic workout equipment like resistance bands or dumbbells and follow online home workout videos. This eliminates the need for commuting to a gym and offers flexibility in your exercise schedule.

6. Prioritize Consistency: The key to reaping the mental health benefits of exercise is consistency. Schedule exercise into your daily routine as non-negotiable appointments, just like business meetings.

Creating a Routine

Integrating Exercise into Your Schedule

• Time Blocking: Allocate specific time slots in your daily or weekly schedule for exercise. Treat these slots with the same importance as business meetings.
• Consistency is Key: Choose a time that works for you and stick to it. Consistency will help make exercise a habit.
• Morning Routines: Many successful entrepreneurs find that starting their day with exercise boosts their energy and productivity.
• Lunch Break Workouts: Use your lunch break as an opportunity for a quick workout. It can re-energize you for the afternoon.
• Short, Intense Workouts: If time is limited, opt for shorter, high-intensity workouts like HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) that can be more time-efficient.

Setting Achievable Goals

• S.M.A.R.T. Goals: Ensure your exercise goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, “I will exercise for 30 minutes, five days a week, for the next three months” is a S.M.A.R.T. goal.
• Start Small: If you’re new to exercise, begin with achievable goals to prevent burnout. You can gradually increase the intensity and duration as you progress.
• Track Your Progress: Keep a workout journal or use fitness apps to monitor your progress. Seeing your improvements can be motivating.
• Reward System: Consider setting up a rewards system for reaching fitness milestones. Treat yourself when you achieve your goals.

By integrating exercise into your routine and setting achievable goals, you can effectively make fitness a regular part of your life as an entrepreneur. This not only contributes to better mental health but can also boost your overall productivity and well-being.

Read: The Top 10 Communication Skills to have to be a Successful-Entrepreneurs

Conclusion

Incorporating exercise into your busy entrepreneurial schedule is not only possible but essential for your mental well-being and overall success. Explore the types of exercise that suit your lifestyle, and prioritize regular physical activity to unlock the full potential of your entrepreneurial journey. Share your thoughts on these strategies in the comments section and inspire fellow entrepreneurs to prioritize their health.