Personal values, goal setting, and consistency: my path to 1,000 days of consecutive workouts

Today marks a significant milestone for me: I've reached 1,000 consecutive days of workouts (minimum 45 minutes, roughly 900 "move calories" on the Apple Watch). This achievement has been transformative, enabling me to unlock more than I could have imagined.

Reflecting on this journey, I'd like to share insights from the past 1,000 days relevant to both my professional and personal growth:

• Inspiration: I was fortunate to find inspiration, and while the specifics may not matter, I owe gratitude to Matt Amundson. His enduring journey of consecutive workouts (he’s now on day 2,310) showcased what was achievable. His personal dedication empowered me, and I'm immensely grateful to count him as a friend.

• Environment: When I embarked on this journey, I was leading GTM at ActiveCampaign. Jason VandeBoom and the other leaders at AC (shout out to the Happy Birthday Tony Newcome ELT) played pivotal roles in fostering an environment conducive to my success. Today I appreciate Craig Rosenberg and my fellow EIRs in continuing to create that environment. (Note - even with a supportive environment, be ready for some 5 am workouts if you want to fit everything in.)

• Strategy, Goals, and Consistency: My journey didn't begin with the aim of reaching 1,000 days. It started with a single day, followed by another, gradually gaining momentum. The overarching goal was to prioritize health, using workouts as the strategy to achieve this. I've learned the critical importance of both setting goals and maintaining consistency; it's the combination of the two that creates success.

• Data (& Tech): Adopting a data and technology-focused approach to fitness has been critical to my progress. Observing results and trends on paper serves as a significant motivator. Momentum builds momentum, but you can’t see small changes without documentation and review.

• Cadence: Some workouts aren’t great, but by maintaining a cadence, the overall progress is much larger than if I were sporadic in my efforts. At some point, I won’t be able to keep my same workout pace, but I do hope to ensure I move my body in some meaningful way every day for the rest of my life.

• Values: Just as it's crucial to adhere to corporate values, having clear and stated personal values is imperative. Embarking on this fitness journey required alignment with my values. Notably, the values of those around us influence our own; I've observed that my weakest times adhering to my personal values occurred when surrounded by individuals with differing values.

• Ecosystem Matters: As previously mentioned, the people surrounding you play a pivotal role. I extend my gratitude to Latané Conant (she/her) for allowing me to teach a dance class at 6Sense's Empowered CMO, as well as many others who joined me for workouts. (Shout out to the sales and marketing executives that joined me on my journey: Jennifer Pockell Dimas, Carilu Dietrich, Amy Holtzman, Sierra Summers, Katherine Andruha, MBA, Carra Manahan, Christina Zigliotto, Cole Nelson, Liz Medlicott (she/her),Elle Odysseos Armstrong, Jill Rowley, Sandra Freeman & Lauren Alexander + the group from Empowered CMO and so many more.) Additionally, I've utilized a diverse support system, including trainers, physical therapists, nutritionists, and doctors, to prevent injury and aid in improvement.

For those curious about my workouts, they encompass a broad range, from spin classes to strength training, rowing to yoga. However, I consistently engage with a strength trainer 2-3 times per week and participate in dance classes 3-4 times per week. Variety has been pivotal in staying engaged.

Regarding time management, I prioritize my personal time akin to my work time, foregoing activities like watching TV. This commitment ties back to personal values, goal setting, and consistency.

Over the past (almost) three years, I've dedicated myself to evolution, resulting in not only physical fitness but also mental resilience, stronger leadership, and increased compassion. I've smoothed out rough edges, embraced curiosity, and nurtured humility. Change is indeed possible.