As first-time founders of a company like Nudge, it can be hard to balance our instinct to obsess over our work with the pressure to practice what we preach (meaning live healthy in case you don't know what we're preaching here). In my life, striking the right balance between work and health is a challenge that's key to my personal happiness. When I don't fit a workout in, it piles on the same way that not getting around to that last item on my daily to-do list at work. The weight from all these missed opportunities piling up is also known as stress. And I hear it's a killer. But in my life, the work/health balance really boils down to finding ways to force exercise into my schedule. Force is a strong word. But these are also the drastic measures we take when all else fails. Here's how each of the Nudge founders do it in order of commitment, from minutes to...well, marriage.

1. Wake Up, Put On Workout Clothes

This is Nudge Co-founder + CEO Mac Gambill's go-to move for getting enough exercise. When I asked him about this strategy he said "it doesn't necessarily mean I'm running in the morning. But if I sit down and start working, the first time I feel the need for a break, there's no barrier to keep me from hitting the road or heading to the gym." I can just picture him sitting at his computer rattling off emails to partners or investors, then pivoting in his chair and jogging straight out the door. Ah, the startup life.

2. Sign Up For A Race

Remember when I said "force exercise into my schedule?" I hate to admit it, but this is THE BEST way to guarantee I'm putting in the time. For example, a couple of weeks ago my sister-in-law signed me up for the Rock 'n Roll Marathon in DC on March 15. I'm signed up for the half marathon which will be the farthest I've ever gone. When she told me she signed me up I Googled "half marathon training" and immediately launched into one of these plans I found on Runners' World. I wasn't about to fail. As I write this, it's February 28. Let's just say I'm ready to rock.

3. Keep Up With Your Partner

There is something to be said about good ol' fashioned accountability, especially when it comes to those you love and don't want to let down. Keeping his end of the bargain with his wife is how Chris Garson, our Co-Founder + CTO stays with his healthy lifestyle. "My wife and I definitely motivate each other to to haul our butts out of bed and down the gym every morning. That's not to say that she isn't super-considerate about it - but I'd feel like a jerk if she's out being fit and I'm just sleeping through my alarm."

There you have it folks, one idea from each of the Nudge founders, and a range of commitment levels. If you're looking for a quickie stick with Mac. But if you want that extra motivation every morning until death do you part, go big with Chris and put a ring on it! Looking for a happy medium? Stick with me and I'll meet you at the races. Speaking of, if you're planning to be at the DC Rock 'n Roll Marathon, give me a shout on twitter. And maybe bring me a recovery drink.

Until next time...Stay on track - Godspeed - Fight the good fight - And go nudge yourself.

Follow Phil Beene, Nudge Co-founder + President

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