As a contractor, there’s more than enough on your to-do list. From meeting tight deadlines, juggling multiple projects, to building strong relationships with clients, finding time to train regularly can be a challenge. But, did you know that exercise can be the key to your success? Here are five reasons why successful entrepreneurs make exercise an integral part of their lifestyle.
1. Exercise increases energy levels
Every time you exercise, your body releases endorphins, serotonin and dopamine – also known as “happiness hormones”. These hormones give you an instant energy boost and improve your mood, making you more productive and efficient throughout the day.
2. Exercise increases creativity and concentration
Exercise helps you focus better and think more creatively. After a good training session, you’ll notice that you’re more attentive to detail and more inventive in problem solving.
3. Exercise is good for mental health
Studies have shown that regular exercise can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. It also gives you a sense of mastery and confidence that can be crucial to success as an entrepreneur.
- Reduces stress: Regular exercise can help reduce the levels of stress hormones in the body, such as cortisol and adrenaline. It also helps to stimulate the production of endorphins, chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood enhancers.
- Improves sleep: Exercise can contribute to better sleep by strengthening the circadian rhythm (the body’s internal clock) and promoting deeper, more restorative sleep. Good sleep is crucial for mental health.
- Increases self-esteem and self-confidence: Exercise can improve how you feel about yourself and your physical appearance. This can lead to increased self-esteem and confidence, both of which are important for mental wellbeing.
- Helps to control addiction: Exercise can help distract from cravings and reduce the urge for unwanted habits. This can be particularly useful for those who are battling addiction or have just started a new diet or intermittent fasting.
- Improves memory and cognitive function: Physical activity increases the production of cells in the hippocampus – the area of the brain responsible for learning and memory. This can lead to improved cognitive function and better memory.
4. Exercise contributes to a longer life
Regular exercise helps to delay ageing and keep you healthy. This can give you years of productivity and success in your career. See the Harvard study.
5. Training shows ability to execute
Setting aside time to train regularly shows that you have strong discipline and follow-through – two important qualities to be a successful entrepreneur.
Now you might be wondering how you can integrate exercise into your busy life? Here are some tips:
- Prioritize: Sacrifice an hour of work for exercise. The hours you have left will be more effective.
- Manage stress: Use exercise as a way to manage stress. Try exercising without music from time to time to get your thoughts under control.
- Choose the right form of exercise: Try weight training when you have time and running for a quick, effective session.
- Eat right: The right diet gives you the energy to complete your workout and helps you see results faster.
- Overcoming obstacles: Illness and changes in everyday life can cause you to stop exercising. But remember, it’s never too late to start again!
So, what are you waiting for? Join Mark Zuckerberg, Richard Branson and many other successful entrepreneurs who have made exercise part of their daily routine!
