I know I’ve been slacking on the fitness side of things post-wise. To be completely honest, I just haven’t felt motivated to carve out workouts into my overflowing schedule these days. After several months of long work hours on top of seemingly endless relocation logistics, I’ve been putting off my better judgment to just relax and make time for self-care. Sound familiar? If you’ve also found yourself run down and uninspired to take the first step back to regular workout programming, this post’s for you. Here’s what you need to know: there are three major points that will get you back to where you need to be. They aren’t inspirational or lofty either, they’re foundational. After all, that’s what truly needs the boost, the core of your mentality. Your strength comes right after mastering that.
Acceptance
We can talk ourselves round and round all day with excuses as to why it’s not possible to get back on track yet. Believe it or not, that’s the most toxic part of it all. After a few months of believing I had no time and feeling sorry for myself, it got harder to take the first step back. I’d sprinkled a few workouts here and there but found myself skipping runs/classes more regularly instead. It’s not until you force yourself to face your real issues at hand that you’ll be able to do something about it and keep it consistent. Mental strength and personal honesty is step one.
Control the controllable.
This is true in my day job as much as it is in life. This is the same for all of us too. The biggest thing for me was transforming my chores. With a demanding schedule, I decided to take the guesswork and logistics out of my diet, and signed up for HelloFresh, allowing me to simplify my coveted hours at home, and make sure I was getting the energy I needed to build back my discipline. If you’ve been following along on Instagram stories recently, you know how easy it’s been getting back into the swing of things nutritionally! Same went for my laundry. I’m loving using Cleanly, as I get 2-3 hours back in my week. I put this back into short runs and workout classes that fit my schedule. Time is truly money. If you’re in New York or San Francisco, this is a game changer.
$10 off your first 3 Cleanly orders: MANDYGR10
Try a free HelloFresh box, no strings attached: ANGRAGG
Pick yourself up.
When you’re super stressed, a change of fashion can really be a huge morale boost. Am I right? I always look for inspiration in my workout wardrobe to get me going on a particularly off day. With the winter gloom finally wearing off here in New York, I set my sights toward spring with Carbon38’s latest collection: Victoria. The beautiful spring designs and ruffles made it more fun to step outside and get my comeback groove going again! I’ve worked out in the Victoria line several times this month, and feel more motivated each time I do. If you love stripes and ruffles, peep the rest of the collection here! I’ve also been more proactive about packing for work and workouts with a bag that does it all, forcing me to leave my excuses at home. The Swing Bag by Transcience fits my gym attire, lunch, and laptop. All in a day’s work my friends. Work smarter, chicer, not harder.
Outfit Details
Bra: One Shoulder Bra, c/o Carbon38
Leggings: Ruffle Ankle Legging, c/o Carbon38
Bag: Swing Bag, c/o Transcience (on sale on Carbon 38!)
Shoes: Lunar Epic Low Fly Knit 2 X-plore, Nike (more sizes here)
MAKEUP DETAILS
Primer: Perfect Canvas Sin Finishing Serum, REN Skincare
Foundation: Your Skin But Better CC+ Illumination Cream, IT Cosmetics
Highlighter: Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter, Fenty Beauty in Lightning Dust/Fire Crystal
Blush: Air Blush Soft Glow Duo, Marc Jacobs Beauty in Lines & Last Night
Contour: Match Stix Matte Skin Stick, Fenty Beauty in Mocha and Rum
Eyes: Naked Petite Heat Palette, c/o Urban Decay
Lashes: Ardell Wispies, Target
Lips: Audacious Lipstick, NARS in Anita
Photos by Lydia Hudgens, makeup by me
