Chapter 1: Embracing the Writing Journey

My desire for consistent writing has truly been fulfilled. Thanks to Medium, I find immense joy in expressing my thoughts for anyone willing to read them. However, I can't help but question whether I am dedicating too much time to this pursuit. Am I compromising my health in the process?

Reflecting on the hours I spend sitting each day raises concerns. Between work, commuting, and now writing, I often wonder: is it all worth it? The answer, unequivocally, is yes!

I'm not the type of writer who can effortlessly churn out a thousand words in ten minutes. That's simply not how my creativity operates, although I have noticed an increase in my writing speed as I become more immersed in the process. What I excel at is dedicating my full attention to every task I undertake. Whether I'm working out or running, I push myself to the limit. Yet, as I approach the milestone of fifty, I'm starting to realize that this approach may need reevaluation. But that's a topic for another day, one I plan to discuss in the future.

Waking up at five in the morning to write feels like navigating a mental obstacle course each day. This routine also prepares my mind for the challenges of my day job. How wonderful is that? I only wish I could incorporate exercise into this early morning routine, as I truly enjoy working out at that time, particularly during weekend runs.

I’ve been contemplating getting an under-desk treadmill to simultaneously engage my mind and body while writing. With Amazon Prime Day approaching, I might just find a good deal!

Nevertheless, my commitment to writing remains steadfast. The real question is how to maintain both mental and physical activity for as long as possible. My father, at eighty-one, keeps his mind sharp with Sudoku, while my mother enjoys crossword puzzles. I aspire to write with the same passion at that stage in life as I do now.

I've already noticed that my writing practice is helping to reconnect neural pathways and revive memories that I thought were fading away. This revelation is monumental for me. I genuinely feared I was beginning to lose my memory before I established this habit, but that concern has dissipated after just two months.

It's commonly said that it takes thirty days to form a habit. Well, habit, I’m glad to have you by my side. I can integrate you into my mornings, just as long as I start preparing breakfast and packing my lunch by six.

The first video dives into five detrimental habits that I've discarded, along with five healthy alternatives I've embraced.

Chapter 2: Cultivating Healthy Writing Habits

Incorporating healthy habits into my writing routine is essential for both mental and physical well-being.

The second video outlines three simple habits that have significantly enhanced my health, showcasing how small changes can lead to substantial benefits.