If you find that the hardest part of exercising is fitting it into your schedule, consider using some tools to help solve that problem.

1. Begin by recognizing that you are trying to resolve the tension between two competing forces, in this case the demands of a busy schedule and the desire to obtain the health benefits of exercise.
2. Plan your day with the intention of settling this “dispute.” Do not accept defeat or the inevitability of conflict. Decide that resolution is not only possible, but is the goal you are committed to.
3. Be prepared to work at it. Conflicts rarely are resolved by good intentions alone. It takes time, preparation, and energy. Decide to dedicate all three to scheduling your exercise.
4. Keep two motivating factors in mind as you proceed: First, what is the worst alternative to resolving this? Second, what positive reasons exist to get it resolved? Consciously remind yourself of these motivating scenarios, both positive and negative.
5. Make an honest list identifying obstacles. What gets in the way of exercising?
6. Make a second list of opportunities to exercise. In other words, consider how and where you could row, walk, and engage in other forms of exercise each day. Write it down. Do not burden it with analysis.
7. Compare the two lists (obstacles and opportunities). Look for ways to fit the exercise into your schedule and to resolve other concerns.
8. Now look for solutions to the obstacles and ways to tailor the exercise to fit. Be creative. Be open to solutions by steps. Keep an open mind.
9. What is most important is to find some progress and lock it in. You can build on that later.
10. Finally, find a way to get help. Arrange to meet someone to exercise with you. Enlist a family member or friend to remind you and/or to praise you for each success. Talk with others about how they make it work.