Do It In Your PJs

I was having a time of it. I was just in a funk and didn’t want to do any of the things I needed to do. I had decided on a simple workout routine, and would set my alarm in the mornings. I would get up, and then just COULD NOT make myself change into my workout clothes. Defeated, I would just go back to bed. And then feel worse about everything all the rest of the day.

After a few weeks of this, I was lamenting to one of my Dr. friends about my lack of followthrough and how I seemed unable to get myself out of my warm cozy pajamas into my tight athleticwear.  His answer was brilliant and simple and one I would never have thought of.

“So work out in your PJs.”

I immediately objected.  I can’t work out in my pajamas?  

Why not? - he asked.  I had no good answer.

So that’s what I did.  For several weeks I would set my timer for 15 min, then start kettlebell swings in my flannel jammies. Halfway through I’d get hot and put my hair up and take off my socks.  After a few weeks, suddenly, the idea of changing out didn’t seem so daunting. From them on, it hasn’t been an issue. But I needed some movement to get over the sedentary inertia.

I’ve remembered this principle when things in life seem overwhelming.  I ask myself -

What’s the problem I can’t get around?  Where is the sticking point?  Is there a simple solution I haven’t thought of?  Maybe I can’t complete the whole project in perfect form and vision - but can I do in it my pajamas?

Dr. Shaw, NMD