For those of us who are leadership-minded, we often analyze our motivation, environment, and attitude. But for some reason, it's very easy to overlook our physical well-being.
Most leadership books give plenty of advice about endurance, attitude, and focus. Unfortunately, I have yet to see a leadership book teach the importance of proper living habits. It is very difficult to have a healthy character and persona in an unhealthy body.
Remember that the processes that we associate with creative thought, energy, stamina, and concentration are actually chemical reactions taking place within our bodies. Learning and creativity are the result of protein synthesis in our brains. Stamina is the breakdown of stored chemical compounds in our bloodstream. Changes in our external performance can often be traced back to diet, sleep habits, stress, fitness, and health.
While we continue to feed our minds by developing knowledge and positive outlook, we must also provide for our body, which will be responsible for the physical manifestation of the ideas and goals we create.
If you find yourself consistently stressed and fatigued, examine your diet. Do you eat at regular intervals, or "on the run"? Are your meals well balanced, or do they include lots of fats, sugars, and caffeine? Those ingredients will slow your reflexes, drain your energy, increase stress-producing hormones in your body, and interfere with your concentration.
Make it a point to increase your protein and vitamin B consumption, which will aid in long-term concentration, sharpen your memory, and stave off hunger. A well-balanced diet along with a vitamin supplement will help you feel your best and perform at your best. Also, stay well-hydrated and reduce your consumption of sugary sodas and juice.
Are you providing adequate time for your body to recharge at night? Or do TV programs, family responsibilities, job responsibilities, or simple lack of planning interfere with your sleep cycle? Do you feel rested in the morning, or does your body feel like it's been robbed of its recovery time? Eliminate unnecessary activities from your daily routine, set a consistent schedule, and get proper rest.
And finally, the dreaded "E" word. Exercise. We know it's necessary, but it's so easy to put off when the schedule gets hectic, or when fatigue kicks in. Find a new activity that you've wanted to try, or get back into a favorite sport. To get back into the habit, build it into your routine... walk a portion of the way to class or work, have a regular activity or game during the week, or consider joining a health club.
After a few weeks of regular exercise, you'll be amazed at the new energy and stamina that you'll have... plus a better physique and a healthier lifestyle.
Take control of your body and its systems, and it will make it much easier to see progress in other areas of life.
Posted By: Jon C.
Tuesday, June 24th 2008 at 5:00PM
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