It’s not only what you do, but who you do it with.

While using Threads recently, I came across a discussion asking how to make time for a full-time job, fitness goals, side projects, hobbies, etc. One person responded saying that they make time by cutting out "unnecessary things like people/friends/family." Now, I'm one of the first to jump at the chance to optimize any part of my life, but reading that broke my heart. We know that loneliness is an epidemic in America, and it's a sign of capitalism gone amok when you think personal accomplishment is a substitute for the things that make life worth living in the first place. I want you all to remember that what you do is important, but just as crucial is who you do it with and the people who will be there for you at the end of your life.

It is hard to fit it all in! As a parent, musician, amateur athlete, and full-time software developer, I can attest to this challenge. Two things have helped make it work for me:

1. Work remotely most of the time, and live close to work when you do commute. Spending time in your car is the number one antagonist to achieving any health or fitness goal.
2. Simply work less. Nobody can sustain 8+ hours of real focused work as a knowledge worker, and shortening your available time is the best way to force an increase in focus. Read the book "Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less" for more on that.