5:30 am the alarm sounds. Ugh. Just 10 more minutes…OK, maybe 15 minutes. Time to make the coffee. Day two of the early morning run schedule. Things are changing for this mom in transition. I am giving in (taking control) and transitioning to one of those early morning workout people. How many times have I read an article about how important it is to make alone time and find time for a workout; however, why is it these writers always figure 5 am is the best time for this? The sun doesn’t even rise until almost 7 am these days. Do people really do this year round and why me?
I survived. After all my procrastination, the minute I walked outside I knew this was the right decision. Then when I saw the lake I was reminded of why these early morning runs are worth it. The sun had just risen over the lake (tomorrow I am going to get out there to actually see the sunrise) and the waves were crashing loudly. The air temperature was a little chilly, but I was dressed appropriately. It is amazing how many are drawn to this lakefront to start their day. This morning I shared the beautiful lakefront with a very diverse group…runners, walkers, dog walkers, a large and small group of seniors stretching, fishermen, people mowing the lawn, landscapers, dogs swimming at the beach, bird watchers and bicyclers. I wonder if they all felt the same way I did when the alarm went off.
Don’t misunderstand me. I have done these early morning runs before; however, my workout schedule has been in transition for over a year now…first, the many stages of pregnancy, then the arrival of the new baby, now the realization that I can (and should) have a workout plan. No more excuses…the baby, it’s too cold, it’s too hot, I’m tired, I’m busy, I will work out tomorrow, etc. The list can go on and on and on…you know exactly what I am saying. It doesn’t matter if I am a SAHM, mom in transition or a working mom. It is never easy to motivate yourself to get out of bed when it is pitch dark out. It also requires some planning, like going to bed earlier. I am definitely an 8 hour kind of girl. There is just no way I can sacrifice sleep to work out, so I must accommodate both.
Today on my run, I came to a conclusion. I decided that I needed to get back to basics and make a schedule. When a workout plan is in writing, it is clear what needs to be accomplished each week. It also gives you a chance to see the big picture and ensure it is realistic, yet challenging (I know…sounds a bit formal). Plus if you have a plan, it is easier for you to make the proper arrangements in advance for scheduling your workout. For example, I need to ensure that someone is able to watch the baby. Therefore, I can coordinate my workout time with my husband. It’s a win-win…he gets to spend valuable alone time with our daughter and I get to run. Yeah!
It sure does feel good to have my workout DONE for the day! This mom in transition is back in control. Now I can focus on all the other things on my to-do-list…well, maybe after I eat lunch.
Mom In Transition 