We’ve all been there—the guilt that comes from skipping a workout, feeling the pressure of trying to be everything to everyone. For Lucas and me, life as parents has been a constant balancing act.
From caring for our two boys to building a home and moving across states, time often feels like it’s slipping through our fingers. But when I take a step back, I remind myself—sometimes the best thing I can do for my family is take care of myself.
That’s why the “reasons not to be confused with excuses” mantra is something I repeat to myself when I get caught up in life’s whirlwind. It’s okay to skip a workout. It’s okay to prioritize what truly matters.
But, the key is knowing when the reason is genuine and when it’s just an excuse holding me back.
How do I balance fitness with family, work, and life?
As a mom, it’s easy to feel guilty about taking time for myself. We’re conditioned to think that putting everyone else first is what makes us a good parent. But Lucas and I have learned over the years that we can’t pour from an empty cup.
That’s why we decided to make our own happiness a priority.
Sure, we had our challenges. Between the deployment, life in Hawaii, and moving to a new home, we’ve been through some tough times. But one thing we’ve learned is that happiness is a choice—and it starts with us. When we’re happy and healthy, we can give our best to our kids.
What does fitness mean to me in this stage of life?
Fitness used to be straightforward: gym sessions, runs, lifting weights. But as a parent, I’ve had to redefine what fitness looks like for me. It’s not about perfection or hitting every workout. Sometimes, it’s as simple as moving my body in whatever way fits my life.
For example, walking with my toddler down the street can be more powerful than any workout at the gym. Some days, I need to be still, rest, and embrace the present moment. And other times, a workout—whether it’s running, yoga, or a strength session—is just what I need to recharge and reset my mind.
What about fitness guilt and excuses?
You know that feeling—the one where you skip a workout, then feel guilty about it? I get it. But here’s the thing: skipping a workout doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Life happens, and sometimes there are more important things to focus on.
Recently, I’ve been forgiving myself for not hitting the gym or sticking to my usual running schedule.
The reasons not to be confused with excuses are crucial. When I realized that prioritizing family, packing boxes, and adjusting to our new routine was more important, I let go of the guilt. There’s no room for self-criticism when you’re giving your all to what matters most. I transformed my self-criticism into self improvement.
How do I handle the balance between “me time” and “family time”?
It’s always been a struggle to find that perfect balance, but here’s what I’ve learned. “Me time” doesn’t always have to look like a solitary gym session. Sometimes, it’s finding joy in the little things—like enjoying a quiet moment on the couch with my son or taking a walk with my toddler.
When I carve out those moments, it’s not just about fitness; it’s about mental clarity and self-care. Moving my body, even for a short walk or a quick run, helps me reset and reminds me that I deserve to take care of myself.
How to start prioritizing fitness (without the guilt)
Ready to fit fitness into your busy life? Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started without feeling like you’re neglecting your family or responsibilities:
Step 1: Define what fitness means to you
Start by asking yourself what fitness looks like right now. Does it mean a 10-minute walk? A run in the morning? A yoga class at home? Define what works for your life and your body.
Step 2: Find ways to incorporate movement into daily life
Exercise doesn’t have to mean spending an hour in the gym. Try walking with your kids, doing bodyweight exercises at home, or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Fitness can be flexible.
Step 3: Set realistic goals
Be kind to yourself. Set goals that are achievable, considering your current routine. Don’t feel pressured to perform at the level you did before having kids or moving. Progress is progress—no matter how small.
Step 4: Make it fun
Find activities you enjoy. Fitness doesn’t have to be a chore. If you love nature, take your workout outside. If you enjoy dancing, turn on your favorite playlist and dance around the house. Make it something you look forward to.
Step 5: Forgive yourself
Don’t beat yourself up for missing a workout or taking a break. Life will always have its ups and downs, and that’s okay. The key is to keep going and give yourself grace.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I avoid feeling guilty about skipping a workout?
Instead of focusing on guilt, focus on why it happened. Life gets busy, and sometimes other priorities take over. Recognize that it’s okay and that you can always get back on track when the time is right.
2. What if I don’t have time for long workouts?
Start with short, manageable workouts. Even 10-15 minutes of movement can make a big difference. The goal is consistency, not duration. Find what fits into your schedule.
3. How can I stay motivated when life gets in the way?
Set small, achievable goals. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small. And don’t forget to focus on the bigger picture—staying healthy and strong for yourself and your family.
4. Can I prioritize fitness while being a full-time mom?
Absolutely! Fitness can be flexible. It might not always look like a structured gym session, but there are plenty of ways to stay active while caring for your kids. It’s about finding what works for you.
Final Thoughts: It’s All About Balance
Here’s the thing: reasons not to be confused with excuses means finding the balance between self-care and caring for others. Life changes, and so do your routines. Some days you’ll hit every workout. Other days, you’ll take a break. And that’s okay.
The key is to stay consistent, be kind to yourself, and recognize that fitness is just one part of a much bigger picture. Keep moving, keep loving yourself, and keep embracing the beautiful chaos of life.