Taking Care of Myself Is the Most Productive Thing I Do

As a full-time healthcare provider, business owner, parent, and partner, one of the questions I'm asked most often is, "How do you find the time?"

The honest answer? Sometimes I don't.

There are plenty of days when the schedule feels overwhelming. Between caring for patients, running a business, driving kids to practices across the mountain communities and the Denver metro area, keeping up with the house, and trying to be present for my family, it would be easy to let my own health slide.

I've done that before.

And I've learned the hard way that when my physical and mental health take a back seat, everything else in my life suffers. I'm less patient, less focused, less energetic, and even the simplest responsibilities begin to feel overwhelming.

The biggest shift for me wasn't finding more time—it was finding movement that I genuinely enjoy.

For me, that means strength training in many different forms. Some weeks it's CrossFit. Other weeks it's slow movement strength training, traditional free weights, or bodyweight plyometrics. I also love trail running, hiking, walking my dog with a weighted vest, and squeezing in a high-intensity interval workout at the gym.

That probably sounds like a lot, but I promise I don't do all of those things every week. My goal is simply to prioritize strength training at least twice a week, sometimes three times, and fit cardio into the moments that life allows. While my kids are at after-school activities, instead of sitting in the parking lot, I'll find a nearby trail, gym, or neighborhood to walk or run. It's not always convenient, but it works for our family.

Nutrition can be just as challenging. Like so many parents, I want my family to eat healthy, balanced meals. But there are also nights when practice in Denver doesn't end until 8:00 p.m., and grabbing a quick meal on the road is simply the reality. I've learned that healthy living isn't about perfection—it's about consistently making good choices most of the time while giving yourself grace when life gets hectic.

I've also learned that taking care of my health means more than just exercising. I make it a priority to see my own healthcare providers, stay current on preventive screenings, and address problems before they become bigger issues. As healthcare providers, we're often so focused on caring for everyone else that we forget to care for ourselves.

The truth is, making my health a priority isn't another item on my to-do list. It's what makes the rest of my to-do list possible. When I move my body, fuel it well, and take care of my physical and mental health, I'm a better provider for my patients, a better leader for my team, and, most importantly, a better parent and partner.

I'm also incredibly fortunate to work alongside an amazing team of providers who help keep my body healthy and moving. Even with all the knowledge I have, I still need help sometimes, and I'm grateful to have colleagues I trust to keep me doing the things I love.

If you're feeling like there's no room in your schedule to prioritize yourself, I understand. I've been there. But I've found that taking care of myself isn't selfish—it's the foundation that allows me to show up for everyone else.

Your health doesn't compete with your responsibilities. It makes them possible.