Help me get out of the house every day

[Pusstachio]

I really want to get out of the house and get some head space every day. DH is supportive but I just don’t seem to manage it like he does.

Theres always housework or questions from the kids that throw me off, or this odd feeling that I need to settle everyone before I go, or conversely that because everyone is settled I should enjoy the peace. As such I’m not in the habit of going out solo daily for a run or a walk or errand or anything. It feels stupid writing this but does anyone else feel this and if you’ve sorted it what helped?

I’m thinking about signing up to some paid classes but that is a struggle with work which is unpredictable (I wfh which is also why it feels more acute)

To introduce a new habit, start small then lengthen the duration. Pick the time that is best for a walk and do 5 mins per day. Month 2 - 10 mins, month 3 - 15 mins, month 4 20 mins, up to whatever you're aiming for.

You need to make it your priority to actually do it, there is nothing magic to be offered here as that's your choice!

On days you do an exercise class, you can skip the walk but you need to plan the day before and commit.

Ok I think if you WFH you have to give yourself a “commute” - so if you start working at 9, 8:30am you go for a 20 minute walk like you were walking to the station/bus stop. When you stop for lunch, go for a “going to get a sandwich” walk- even if you have lunch in your own kitchen, go for a 10 minute walk. End of the day, “commute” walk home. All 3 might not be possible, but worth trying to fit in the start of the day one to force yourself to mentally separate the getting ready for work then work time as if you were leaving the house.

Does that make sense? Try for a week, see if it works.

Thanks- I had 3 kids in relatively quick succession and I just feel like I’m always waiting for my next interruption if that makes sense- I feel I’ve lost my internal locus of control a bit. Youngest started school this September which I think is why I’m noticing it now as he’s obviously a lot more independent so I’m not sure why I’m still hovering around feeling I can’t just go out (when DH is here obviously! He does work away sporadically which also doesn’t help with habit forming)

A commute is a great idea to get started as even if he’s away I’ll be school running so up and out.