I feel like I have some stability back in my life. After moving back to my mum’s at the start of lockdown (mid March) I haven’t really had my own space. Whilst I was fortunate enough to have my own room at my mum’s it wasn’t my place – it wasn’t my fridge; it wasn’t my living room etc. I’ve been at my new flat in Mile End for just over two weeks now. The first weekend we moved in, the second one involved putting furniture together and more unpacking but this weekend was much more settled and I feel like I can start implementing some good routines. Firstly, I have woken up both today and yesterday and completed a workout after brushing my teeth. I was unable to do this when staying at Lana’s or Marta’s old place as there wasn’t enough room. I know that I need to design my morning routine more thoroughly but the fact that I have got up and exercised will make the habit easier to build for the weekdays ahead. The first key is getting out of bed and brushing my teeth. Once I have done that I will then go into the living room and start my exercises. I’m using James Clear’s technique of habit stacking to ensure I exercise (as I brush my teeth first thing everyday I will then use that as a cue to exercise).
I’m currently reading “Range” by David Epstien which Marta bought me for my birthday. The theme of the book that specialising late is much more likely to lead to success as opposed to specialising early (with a few exceptions). By experiencing a range of sports/careers/topics you are able to use a wider experience pool to solve specific problems in a given field. Due to this I am keen to ensure that I continue to read regularly and widely. Whislt having never really played tennis properly; I learned a lot last year by reading “Winning ugly” by Brad Gilbert. This book focused on tennis but had relatable lessons for other sports and life in general especially around getting your preparation right and looking to exploit weaknesses in your opponents game thus preventing them from playing to their strengths. Another example would be how I used Bobby Duffy’s “Perils of Perception” book to write my first article around the importance of storytelling in the interview process.
I’ve been feeling stressed from work – not that I’m under any pressure from management but pressure I have put on myself by not being organised. I have not been setting time aside for BD and other activities which makes me feel guilty when I don’t achieve what I say I will at the start of the week. My inbox is full too and this makes it hard for me to have a clear mind. I bought a screen to have for when I work at home so I can be more efficient. I spent some time today going through my emails. I will do more on this when Marta has her calls with family and friends this evening.
I’m loving living with Marta; she’s so chilled out and non-judgmental. She makes me laugh and I enjoy being with her. She’s made the apartment feel homely and we have been cooking a lot together. I’m very happy we moved in together.
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