As a 43-year-old dad, husband, and business owner, I work to be the best version of myself in every role. However, I have my off days or even weeks. During these times, I follow a few key steps to help me get back on track.
First, I conduct a self-audit of the past 7-10 days. I evaluate my nutrition, daily activity, caffeine and alcohol intake, and even how often I’ve given out hugs. It’s common for me to realize that I’ve neglected these important daily habits.
Here’s how I reset:
Prioritize physical activity: Whether it’s a long trail run or a sweaty CrossFit session ,I make sure to get moving. Running helps me clear my mind and boost endorphins, aiding in problem-solving. CrossFit raises my heart rate, allowing me to focus on the moment and give my mind a break.
Control my nutrition: I often find that my protein intake drops when I’m off balance. To address this, I use Instacart to stock up on my favorite easy-to-prepare proteins (email me with “INSTA” in the subject for a list!). I also cut back on dining out to control my intake of sodium, fats, and sugars, which helps prevent feelings of sluggishness in both body and mind.
Hydration, caffeination and moderation: I check my consumption of water, alcohol, and caffeine. It never fails, I’m up on alcohol and caffeine and down on water. For a quick reset, I set alarms reminding me to drink 20 ounces of water twice a day, limit myself to two servings of caffeine, and abstain from alcohol. This cycle often perpetuates itself—less alcohol means feeling less tired, which reduces my caffeine cravings.
Increase Affection: Never underestimate the power of a hug. A tight squeeze from my kids always lifts my spirits.
The main takeaway is that reconnecting with my simple daily habits is often the solution, providing my body and brain with what they need to feel their best.
