As finance professionals, we often find ourselves glued to our desks, crunching numbers and meeting deadlines. Last year, I decided to pursue a healthier lifestyle, changing my habits around eating and exercise – and using my professional skills into the bargain.
At the beginning of the year, I created an Excel spreadsheet listing the activities I wanted to do more of: football, gym, hiking, running, swimming and walking. My goal was to complete 200 activities by the end of the year, averaging about four activities a week. I knew that tracking my progress in real time would keep me motivated and accountable.
Spreadsheet tips
Here’s how I did it. In the Excel file, I listed all the days of the year in one column, and in the next column used the dropdown function to list all the activities I wanted to take part in. When I completed that activity, I used the dropdown function to add it to the list it.
Small changes can lead to significant results
I then wrote a formula to set my target, which was 200 activities in a 365-day year, working out at 55%. Next, I wrote a formula to automatically update my actual achievement percentage as I entered it into the spreadsheet, after completing each activity.
Finally, I wrote a conditional formula to automatically compare my actual activity versus target, which returned ‘On target’ if I was on track and ‘Below target’ if not. I also added a function to show green if on track and red if not. In this way, I could quickly get a snapshot of where I was as soon as I opened the file.
Now 2024 is over, I am proud to say that I achieved my target and lost 9kg in weight. Beyond the numbers, I feel younger, stronger and lighter. The regular gym routine has improved my strength, and the variety of activities has kept things interesting and enjoyable.
Keep going!
Small changes can lead to significant results. I recommend starting with manageable goals, tracking your progress, and not getting discouraged by initial challenges. Start with enjoyable activities like walking or jogging, incorporate strength training exercises, plan balanced meals ahead of time and stay hydrated throughout the day.
We can become more productive, happier and better equipped to handle the demands of our profession
I found that by observing my lifestyle, I was able to cut bits out here, add a little there, and make tweaks until I found a rhythm that worked for me as a husband, father and business leader.
Of course, the journey wasn’t without its hiccups. One memorable failure was my attempt at a new diet plan that involved a rather ambitious smoothie cleanse. Let’s just say, after three days, I was ready to trade all my healthy intentions for a burger and fries. It was a humbling reminder that not every plan works for everyone, and it’s okay to adjust and find what suits you best.
By prioritising our wellbeing, we can become more productive, happier and better equipped to handle the demands of our profession. Here’s to a healthier you in 2025.
