Guest Article
We all know the importance of working out and keeping our bodies in tip-top shape. The recommended amount of exercise per week is 30 minutes, three times per week. Easy, right? Wrong. As a small business owner, we wear so many hats, have way too many demands and time is money. Those 90 minutes could be spent following up with potential clients, creating a new marketing campaign, balancing the books…the list goes on and on with tasks that we do to grow our business.
But, let’s take a second to chill out and think about this. How much more productive would you be if you took some time for yourself and ran 3 miles? Or did the elliptical for 30 minutes? Or took a yoga class? We all know that rush after a good workout – sweat dripping down our face, our heart pounding and our minds clearer and ready to tackle the rest of the day’s activities.
Studies indicate that only 51% of Americans take the time to workout three times/week for 30 minutes. And 25% of us don’t workout AT ALL. I’m willing to bet that the numbers are even higher for small business owners.
If lowering cholesterol and preventing heart disease and osteoporosis isn’t enough motivation for you, let’s take a look at how it can benefit your business and the bottom line.
1) Increase serotonin levels– yes, the “happy” chemical. Exercise lifts your mood and we all know that when we “feel” good, we are more productive in our business pursuits.
2) Networking activity– Have you ever thought about joining a soccer or volleyball league? Not only are you getting exercise and having fun. But, you’re also meeting and mingling with potential clients and developing a deeper connection. People like to work with those that have similar interests and joining a workout club is a great way to make those connections!
3) Increase strength and flexibility– Are you having a hard time getting out of bed in the morning and attacking your to-do list? Coffee has its benefits, but maintaining limber and strong muscles is a natural way to get you off to a good start in the morning.
4) Stress reliever– it’s good to step away from our work every so often, especially during those frustrating times. Turn off the tablet and put away your files for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Go for a walk, take a yoga class, or jog around the lake. The problem that’s been nagging you will still be there, but I bet you will feel better about solving it after you take some time for yourself.
5) Increase creativity– I get my best ideas while I’m running, lifting weights or taking a dance class. Exercise allows me to tap into another part of my brain that isn’t as accessible when I’m staring at my computer screen and reading reports. Just sayin’.
So, in addition to looking and feeling good, regular exercise can prevent damaged blood vessels and Alzheimer’s disease. Exercise is a great way to give your business that jump start it needs to remain successful.
It’s not too late to start working on that beach body. What are you going to do to add more exercise into your weekly routine?
About the author: Danetha Doe is a former NFL Cheerleader and the owner of EmeryCloud, an accounting and strategy consulting firm for creative freelancers and small business owners. If you’re looking for a challenge or just don’t know where to start, sign up for Danetha Doe’s Memorial Day BikiniChallenge. One winner will receive a one-on-one virtual health coach package with a certified fitness and nutrition specialist. For details and to sign up, visit www.missdanetha.com.
“Fit Woman Doing Biceps Exercise With Pink Dumbbells” courtesy of stockimages /www.freedigitalphotos.net
Great article!!!! Danetha Doe is also Beautiful…Tks for sharing!
I appreciate you Melinda.
I want to collaborate in business, but I have not money. I am tired and pension average is 210$ in Romania.
Your Sincerely,
Constantin