Finding balance…
How does one go about living a healthy lifestyle but still finding a balance and doing things they enjoy? I continue to struggle with this. The 4th of July holiday is a great time to spend with friends and family, but in my circle it always involves large quantities of food (usually unhealthy) and larger quantities of drinking. I obviously am not going to stop being around my family, and my friends have always been there for me so I am not booting them either, and I don’t want to be "that guy" who is so obsessed with living healthy that he isn’t really living his life in the first place. I’m going to try to enjoy the weekend but not overdo it, and make sure I at least get some running in and some body weight exercises.
July 3, 2009 at 12:26 pm
It’s always difficult, but you set the boundaries. I will never have a drink, but I don’t mind gulping down a couple of hot dogs (actually I enjoy them a lot). You can set your own rules, and eat slow
July 3, 2009 at 12:28 pm
I don’t think choosing to eat healthy, and foregoing the crap foods most folks eat makes you "that guy". Choosing healthy eating & exercise does not make one obsessed, unless you’re dropping your family & friends, refusing to be around them, or being a jerk about it all. I don’t try to foist my desire to eat healthy on others. But on the other hand, I’m not going to let others dictate my eating habits just so I "fit in" with the crowd.
My other method for finding balance: I suck it up & get up early to hit the gym at 5-5:15am, M-F. That leaves my evenings & weekends open for family, etc.. Working out while my wife & girls sleep allows me that balance……or, actually, time for the more important things in life. My workouts enrich my life, they aren’t my main focus. But it does take a little intentionality & sacrifice (my case……a little less sleep).
July 3, 2009 at 12:37 pm
PS: I don’t mean to say I never indulge. I certainly do! I’m just not going to be held captive to the poor eating habits of the majority of people. I’m not Joe Athlete, but I’m in better shape than at least 95% of other 47 yr olds. I kinda like feeling good, plus being healthy & trim.
July 3, 2009 at 12:52 pm
Simply just make the healthier choices at the parties and holidays. Will power is key too. Setting boundaries and limitations will help keep you sane. One hamburger won’t set you back, but that and some of Mom’s apple pie, a few beers and some cookies can. This summer is full of pool parties, and what not, but it doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice hanging out w/ ppl since your tuna and brown rice isn’t going to be present. Have fun w/ this man, its all worth it!