Do you like to plunge in and get your difficult tasks done first thing, or do you need a warm up? Our approach to exercise may tell us about our approach to difficult tasks. Perhaps you like to start right in walking, running, playing tennis without a warm up, or you think your don’t have time for one. Or perhaps you like to stretch, do a few light movements or weights, and then go for the gusto. So too our approach to difficult tasks varies. Many of us have heard “do the difficult task first then you can take it easy.” Turns out this is only one way to go about your day.
While there are rewards to checking ‘em off and not having tasks looming before you, this may not be the best approach for you to take. Many of us require a warm up period, a few stretches to get the blood and thoughts flowing, doing some easier tasks to prepare ourselves for the more difficult responsibilities of the day.
When I was younger I started right in with whatever exercise I was doing without even thinking about warming up, but I’m finding that the structure of warming up really does help with my alignment in exercise and life. Setting an intention, part of a warm up, as well as a to-do list, structures my day so that I have more of a sense of purpose to what I do. Doing a few easy tasks, even some which can be methodical and peaceful in their own way, laundry, deleting emails, also allows for a sense of success so that I may feel better before plunging into a big task ahead.
For some it is easier to do the challenging tasks early so that the fears related to it don’t have as much time to grow out of proportion. However, it’s worthwhile to recognize your own rhythm for what works in challenging situations. What supports you taking necessary action when you are scared or nervous? Do this or some variation prior to your next challenge and see how it goes.
What kind of pacing works for you?
To explore what works for you, and develop your own warm up routine, sign up for my 4 session coaching package, Renew Your Life.
Dina 203 744.YOU3 (9683)
