It’s a tough week trying to juggle job commitments and being there for the family. Even using Getting Things Done method which millions swear by, I still seem to be struggling with never-ending to do tasks which is bubbling faster than DeepWater Horizon gusher. Trying to find time to do exercises this week was challenging but managed to do two session of weight training and somewhat lame aerobic.

I only managed to squeeze in exercise in a busy week by keep reminding myself to be selfish. Yes, exercise did take time away from my lovely wife and kids. But after reading 6 Reasons Why You Should be Selfish About Your Wellbeing , I had to seriously ask myself, which leads to greater good down the road. I have a small window to act to maintain my health and it is taking a Lama’s mindfulness to keep things in perspective to act on what’s important and not just what’s urgent. Hmm, maybe being a Dad in this turbulent times does need paying attention to just physical health but also spiritual.

Wayne Parker in his thoughtful article Taking Care of Yourself: Health and Wellness Tips for Fathers mentions that paying attention to the emotional and mental health is also equally important . He uses the familiar Covey metaphor of using a blunt axe – being worn down doing one task of another while ticking off the to do list with decreasing effectiveness.

Guess making time for physical exercise is only the start however it’s a good start. As my buddy Param says, you got to get all the chemicals in your body sorted out first with eating right and exercising.  It will be a crucial stepping stone to be fully alive for my loved ones. We have to be selfish so that we can be around for our loved ones.