As a Black vegan first-time mama who works from home, the only time I have for myself is often in the quiet hours of the night or the early morning. Motherhood is an incredible journey, full of sacrifices, and it has undeniably made me a better person in so many ways. But let’s be real—finding time for myself can feel like a luxury I can’t always afford. In the past, I’ve found myself giving in to indulgences that offered quick comfort instead of doing what’s truly good for me, like working out.
But that’s all changing. I’ve made a commitment to myself: I am now the type of person who works out every day in some way, shape, or form. I am the type of person who genuinely loves and cares about my body and those around me. By prioritizing my health, I’m better equipped to care for my loved ones—especially my daughter. Taking just a little time each day to focus on my physical well-being has transformed me in ways I didn’t anticipate.
So, why should you also get off your butt and work out right now (and every day)? Here are three compelling reasons:
1. You Want to Be 1% Better Every Day.
Improvement isn’t about making giant leaps overnight; it’s about those small, consistent steps that add up over time. It takes 30 days to build a habit, and closer to 60 for it to become automatic. The key is persistence. Even if you can only spare five, ten, twenty, or thirty minutes a day, you’re still making progress. This is the power of compounding—putting in the work now sets you up for success later. Remember, the day you plant the seed is not the day you harvest the fruit. So, put in the effort now so that when the time comes, you’re ready to reap the rewards. As they say, “summer bodies are built in the winter.” Achieving the body and health you desire isn’t about a quick fix; it’s about cultivating discipline over time. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Start today, and each day you’ll become more of the person you want to be.
2. You Want to Be Mentally, Physically, and Spiritually Healthy.
It’s incredible what just ten minutes of jump roping can do for your mental health. This simple, affordable exercise can be done anywhere, making it a perfect choice for those who value convenience. And if you’re like me—someone who values balance and mindfulness—jump roping is a fantastic way to reconnect with your body and your childhood joy. Remember the days of double-dutch or just plain skipping rope on the playground? That sense of fun and freedom is something you can tap into again, even as an adult.
For me, jump roping has become more than just exercise; it’s a discipline that requires me to be mindful, present, and committed. My current goal is to reach 100 consecutive jumps without tangling the rope. It’s a small, achievable target that I can measure and work towards. Once I hit it, I’ll set a new goal and keep pushing forward. Think about what activities bring you joy and can be done consistently—then start.
Mentally, working out helps clear my mind. As someone who used to be a chronic overthinker, exercise has become a sanctuary—a place where I can switch off my brain and just be. The negative emotions I used to carry, like doubt, insecurity, anger, or unforgiving thoughts, now fuel me to push harder and become better.
Spiritually, working out brings me closer to a divine source. I feel waves of gratitude for having a body that can move, for the breath in my lungs, for life itself. It aligns me with positive energy, helping me focus on the good in life. When you cultivate gratitude, everything else falls into place. I can easily see myself becoming the type of person who works out twice a day as I continue on this journey. There’s a reason so many successful people have routines, and physical activity is often a key part of that.
3. You Haven’t Done It in a While.
Let’s face it—if you’re like most people, you start and stop things that are uncomfortable. But here’s the thing: the life you want is on the other side of the comfort you cling to. Growth requires sacrifice, and self-improvement is no exception. It’s not easy to push past that initial resistance, but the rewards are worth it. Rededicate yourself today to the pursuit of self-improvement through physical exercise. Your body and your mind will thank you for it.
So, what are you waiting for? Get off your butt and start moving. Your future self will be grateful you did.
