SELF-ASSURANCE: TAKING CARE OF ME
The link between personal training sessions and global business strategy courses may not be immediately evident. However, investing in my physical health has everything to do with developing energy and self assurance, a key component of global psychological capital.
As I read the different competencies in the global psychological capital portion of the global mindset framework, I felt very comfortable with many of the competencies. I have always considered myself a very energetic, confident and dynamic individual. However, in reading the suggested development activities, I realized that care of my physical health had long taken a backseat to life's other demands. Thus, I chose to pursue the self-assurance area of global psychological capital by "[taking] good physical care of myself to maintain consistent and peak levels of energy."
My physical care regimen consisted of primarily two lifestyle changes: investing in one-on-one personal training sessions with a fitness coach and embarking on a juice diet. For six weeks, I worked with my trainer once per week on Monday mornings, engaging in cardio and strength building exercises. I strived to complete the trainer's exercise plan two more times that week in order to prepare myself for the next, increasingly challenging session. Working out regularly allowed me to create a positive healthy habit and instilled mental toughness. Because I financially committed to the sessions, I woke up early every Monday morning to work out. As I am not a natural athlete or a very fit individual, the workouts were often challenging for me, but they required me to persevere.
Additionally, I purchased a juicer and began to incorporate juices into my diet. Replacing greasy and calorie-laden afternoon snacks with juices concocted from fresh fruits and vegetables, I began to see changes in my physique and my energy levels.
The Takeaways:
While going to the gym and eating healthy initially seemed like a detractor from academic and other obligations, I realized that keeping my body in peak physical condition is an asset to my performance in other areas of life. Through working out and eating more healthily, I noticed a marked increase in my levels of energy. I felt lighter and more awake throughout the day, notably at the end of the day during my 5:30-8pm class. This exercise highlighted how important self-care is to being the best you can be in all areas of your loife.
