Its amazing how you can think about doing something that you really want to do, but you never get around to doing it. Some of the exercises that I think to myself “I should do that more” never results me in actually doing it.

One example is the pushup. I could sit here and think, hmmm, I should do a few pushups now and then. Then I don’t do it. What is the obstacle in our minds? I usually think we are so overwhelmed with all that we need to do, we feel burdened and never do anything.

I made a new workout plan a few weeks ago that has worked very well. Maybe it will help you too. I can call it “If you only had time for One Thing”. I have a rough plan of what I need to do every day in my workouts. It revolves around my yoga teaching schedule and my responsibilities at work and home. Here is how it goes.

I prioritize every day 5 or 6 major movements I’d like to accomplish. But the priority means that if I only had time for one thing, what would it be? Its usually squats or deadlifts. I figure those are the most important movements for life. Other days, it is a cardiovascular movement. So if I only have time for one, I am sure to get that done.

However, if I have time for my whole routine, its varied enough that if I have time all week to do all the things, it turns out to be a very well-rounded program that includes a variety of important tasks. And if I have more time than that, I can add other electives.

In your daily lives, find what is most important to you. It may be hugging your loved one, walking your dog, working out, or going to a yoga class. Even in your work schedule, name one thing (or up to 3 things) that you would like to accomplish for that day. It should be something that makes a significant difference in your life without being unattainable.

[I just did 10 pushups; its not on my list, but how hard is it to do something so simple?]