If you had asked me ten years ago what the most important part of my daily routine was, I probably would’ve said early meetings, spreadsheets, or late-night problem-solving. These days? It’s lacing up my running shoes.

As someone who’s spent years in the world of finance and operations, I’ve come to understand that clear thinking and strong decision-making don’t happen by accident. They’re the result of daily choices—not just about business, but about how we care for ourselves. For me, regular physical exercise has become a non-negotiable part of maintaining not just my health, but my ability to lead effectively.

The Mind-Body Connection is Real

There’s no shortage of research showing the benefits of exercise for your physical health: improved heart function, lower blood pressure, better sleep. But what’s often overlooked is how deeply exercise impacts your brain. When we move our bodies—whether it’s a brisk walk, lifting weights, or cycling—our brain gets a boost in blood flow, oxygen, and key chemicals like dopamine and serotonin. That’s the stuff that lifts your mood, sharpens your focus, and improves memory.

I’ve felt this firsthand. On days I make time for a workout—even a quick one—I approach the rest of the day with more clarity and energy. I’m more focused on meetings. I make better financial decisions. And I feel more present when managing teams or reviewing complex data. It’s not magic. It’s physiology.

Decision Fatigue is Real—and Exercise Helps

Let’s be honest: in finance and operations, we’re constantly making decisions. Some small, others massive. Over time, this constant decision-making wears you down. It’s called decision fatigue, and it’s a silent killer of productivity and good judgment.

What I’ve found is that exercise helps reset that mental load. It’s a break from the white noise of the day. When I’m lifting weights or jogging a trail, I’m not thinking about the balance sheet or that staffing issue—I’m simply moving, breathing, and recalibrating. More often than not, I finish those workouts with a clearer mind and better perspective.

It’s not just about reducing stress. It’s about training your mind to stay agile, especially under pressure.

Fitness Creates Structure—and Structure Builds Discipline

Leadership requires discipline. So does maintaining your physical fitness. The two go hand in hand.

When you make time for regular exercise, you’re building in structure to your day. You’re training your brain to stick to a routine, even when it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient. That mindset translates directly to professional life—whether it’s pushing through a tough quarter or navigating a big strategic pivot.

For me, waking up early to work out isn’t just about burning calories. It’s a form of mental training. I’m reminding myself that discomfort is part of the process—and that I’m capable of moving through it. That’s a powerful message to carry into the boardroom or the job site.

Mental Health Matters—Especially for Leaders

It’s easy to overlook the toll that leadership can take on mental health. The pressure to perform, guide teams, and make critical financial decisions can weigh heavily—even if we don’t talk about it. Exercise has been one of the most effective tools I’ve found for managing stress, staying grounded, and avoiding burnout.

We often hear the phrase “put your own oxygen mask on first.” Physical activity is my oxygen mask. It gives me the energy, patience, and perspective I need to show up fully for others.

And let’s face it—people can tell when you’re running on fumes. Leading from a place of strength and stability makes a difference, and it starts with how we care for ourselves behind the scenes.

How to Make Fitness a Priority—Even with a Packed Schedule

I get it—our days are full. Meetings stack up, emails never stop, and there’s always something more urgent than a workout. But making exercise a priority isn’t about having extra time. It’s about making the time.

Here are a few things that have worked for me:

1. Schedule it like a meeting.
I put workouts on my calendar. They’re appointments with myself that I try not to break.

2. Keep it simple.
You don’t need a fancy gym or 90-minute sessions. A 20-minute bodyweight workout or a walk between meetings still counts.

3. Move in ways you enjoy.
For me, that’s cycling or lifting. For someone else, it might be hiking or swimming. The best workout is the one you’ll stick with.

4. Start small and build.
You don’t need to train like an athlete. Consistency matters more than intensity.

A Sharper You Means a Stronger Business

At the end of the day, the health of your mind shapes the health of your business. When you’re mentally sharp, emotionally balanced, and physically energized, you make better decisions. You lead more effectively. You inspire others.

Fitness isn’t just a personal goal—it’s a professional strategy. In the high-stakes world of financial decision-making and strategic planning, every edge matters. And this one is fully within your control.

So if you’ve been on the fence about making physical exercise part of your routine, here’s my advice: start today. Your mind—and your business—will thank you.