unedited for 100 days. Day 31

I think it's important to adjust our standards from time to time. Of course not when it comes to our values but rather, our expectations on ourselves and our workout routine. As a personal trainer, I get a lot of questions from friends, family and clients alike concerned with how much we should be doing cardio or how often we should be doing strength training. While there may be recommendations around improving heart health and preventing osteoporosis, I find it draining and impossible to abide by those standards longterm without fail. It's important to me that I live in an attitude of success, not failure. If I were to put a standard on my life that suggested 5-6 days of working out per week, I am not shy to admit that I would be missing the mark most weeks. Instead I like to look at the week ahead, taking all of the appointments and variable events that impact my schedule to mind, and ask "what does success look like this week?". When it comes to working out, I believe that we all benefit greater mental and physical health, when we prioritize balance and well being. Some might say that their workouts are non-negotiable. I wont say that's wrong, but I would challenge them to consider if their non-negotiable workouts are putting any other aspect of their life out of balance. For example, research now tells us that a proper nights sleep has a greater impact on our waist lines than working out- so if you are waking up extra early to squeeze in that cardio session for weight loss reasons, many health professionals would advise instead to stay in bed. Finally, some good advice coming from the health world! Working out is not and should never ever ever feel like a punishment. Working out is a privilege and a celebration! It is a celebration of vitality. So instead of feeling bombarded by suggestions made by someone other than yourself, make up your own rules and feel like a damn boss about it!