This year’s Army Ball was a huge success, full of toasts, awards, and reunions with old friends. The Army has a unique way of bringing people together, and even though we often move around and say goodbye to people we care about, the connections we make are always lasting.
That’s the beauty of the Army—it’s a never-ending story of friendships, support, and memories that stay with us.
But let’s be real—it’s not always smooth sailing, especially when juggling work, family, and trying to stay fit. As parents, Lucas and I have learned that we need to prioritize our happiness in order to make sure our kids are happy too.
And sometimes, that means giving ourselves a break from the gym and embracing the moments that matter most. And yes, we had a ball this weekend, but we also learned a few important things about balance along the way.
How Do You Find Time for Family, Fitness, and Fun?
It’s easy to get caught up in the never-ending cycle of parenting, work, and trying to do it all. But as parents, Lucas and I have come to understand that happiness doesn’t just come from checking off the to-do list.
It’s about creating space for ourselves and remembering to put “me time” first.
Sure, we’re busy. Between moving, unpacking, and adjusting to new routines, I’ve felt like I’ve barely had time to think. But one thing that keeps me grounded is making time for the things that matter most—like spending time with family and getting some much-needed exercise.
What’s the Real Deal with the Army Ball and My Fitness Routine?
Let me give you the rundown. Lucas and I spent most of the weekend celebrating at the Army Ball, which was held right on post this year. The event was beautiful, with great friends, delicious food, and a lot of love and laughter.
But here’s the twist: Lucas had a packed training schedule and only had 30 minutes to get ready before we were supposed to leave for the ball. Now, I won’t lie, I was the one who took 30 minutes just to get my hair done! But, we made it.
It was a reminder that life doesn’t always go as planned, and sometimes, you have to roll with the punches.
While I didn’t make it to the gym, I didn’t let that be a reason for guilt. Instead, I embraced the moment. And sometimes, those moments—like sharing a quiet evening with friends or having a conversation on a park bench—are more important than any calorie burn or workout time.
How to Fit Fitness Into Your Busy Life (Without the Guilt)
So, how do you balance it all? Here’s a practical guide on how I manage family time, fitness, and self-care—even when life gets in the way.
Step 1: Make Fitness Flexible
When I couldn’t hit the gym, I took a walk. Sometimes, fitness is just about staying active, even if it means a short walk or a quick jog around the block. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about staying consistent.
Step 2: Prioritize Self-Care
Fitness is not just about the physical—it’s mental too. Taking care of yourself doesn’t have to mean a strict routine. Sometimes it’s taking a moment to relax on the couch with your kids or going for a walk without worrying about calories.
Step 3: Embrace the Non-Scale Victories
A weekend like this is a perfect reminder that fitness isn’t always about numbers—whether it’s a number on the scale or the amount of time you spend at the gym. It’s about feeling good in the moment.
And that moment? Laughing with friends and enjoying time with family, regardless of what you did or didn’t do for fitness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do you manage fitness when you’re short on time?
When I don’t have time for a full workout, I take it easy. A 10-minute walk or a quick bodyweight workout at home can do wonders. I keep my expectations realistic and know that consistency is more important than perfection.
2. Is it okay to skip a workout when you have a busy schedule?
Absolutely. Life happens. Sometimes the best thing you can do is prioritize what’s most important. For me, it’s about finding balance. If I miss a workout, I don’t let guilt take over. I just get back at it when I can.
3. How can I enjoy an event without feeling guilty about missing a workout?
Enjoy the moment. Life isn’t just about working out—it’s about balance. Events like the Army Ball are special, and missing a workout won’t derail your progress. Focus on having more fun, the memories, and the people around you.
4. What should I do if I don’t feel motivated to work out?
Start small. Whether it’s a walk or stretching, just move. The hardest part is getting started, but once you do, you’ll feel better. Motivation follows action.
We Had a Ball: Living Life Fully, Guilt-Free
Here’s the thing: fitness doesn’t have to be perfect, and life definitely won’t be. Between work, family, and everything in between, I’ve learned that balance is key.
We had a ball this weekend—not just because of the Army Ball, but because we made the best of our time together. It’s about finding joy in the little things and remembering to take care of ourselves along the way.
So next time you’re feeling guilty about missing a workout or juggling your schedule, remember this: Life happens. Take the time you need, and don’t forget to enjoy the ride. Your health and happiness will follow.
