Outrunning the morning inbox

I’m actually getting my steps in as I’m writing this to you. It isn’t always a dedicated, sacred hour of fitness. Most days, it’s just about sneaking movement in before the world starts asking things of me.

My workday doesn’t officially kick off until 9:00, which gives me a window to outrun the inbox. I usually grab my coffee and check my email first thing. I know some people say you shouldn’t look at your phone, but for me, it eases my mind. Once I know there are no fires to put out, I can add tasks to my list and then focus on moving.

The goal is to hit 3,000 or 4,000 steps before the phone starts ringing or the notifications take over. Some mornings are smoother than others. Today I had a few interruptions that slowed me down, but that’s fine. I’ve realized it doesn’t have to be perfect to be effective.

The alternative is sitting on the couch scrolling through social media, which doesn’t do anything for my goals or my headspace. Getting those steps in early just makes the rest of the day feel easier to manage.

How do you handle that gap between waking up and starting your work day? Do you have a window where you can sneak in some movement before the emails start hitting?