How am I ever going to find time to do this?

[KittyChimera]

I've been dieting since January. I lost 8 pounds, but unfortunately got really stressed out and ended up gaining it back, because stress is the worst. I am trying to fit more time for exercise or even walking into my routine and I am having a really hard time balancing it out. Currently, I am working Monday-Thursday. I am out of the house from 10am-10:45pm, and basically I come home, eat dinner and want to go straight to bed since I have to get up early to do the whole breakfast/shower/morning routine stuff. I am off Friday, Saturday, Sunday, but I feel like doing all of my exercising on those 3 days isn't the best, because those are also the days that I have the hardest time with a structured meal schedule and eating healthy foods because I'm so busy all the time. 

On my days off I try to exercise and eat healthy, but it's really hard since I'm always rushing around with errands, and people wanting me to do things, and having to do things. I normally end up going for fast and easy food, which is rarely good for you. I also end up walking a lot, but normally don't feel like I have time for anything more intense.

I also find myself stuck at a desk the entire work day. I do walk around on my breaks, and I go upstairs (2 flights up) to use the bathroom, so I get a little more exercise that way, but I know it isn't enough, and I'm really frustrated by the fact that I'm having such a hard time making it work. I also walk up and down the stairs (4 flights) coming into and out of work.

[WendyB]

Make yourself a priority. You talk about stress. Find time for you and do it.

I'm sorry but I also see a lot of excuses in your post.

Exercising reduces stress.

[eparker42431]

I see that you've made a few small changes to your routine (taking stairs, for instance).  Those changes help but you're right that they're not enough to help you reach your goal.  Your body will need time to recoup in between your workouts, so spacing your days will be better than doing all weekend days.  You'll be more likely to hurt yourself doing it all together and then you won't want to do it at all.

I do agree with the other reply:  you need to make yourself a priority.  I struggle with this myself, but I know it's true.  You will always reach your goal if you put yourself first for a while.  There's nothing wrong with doing that to make healthy changes.  There are lots of short workout videos available on YouTube.  Utilize those to squeeze the time in if you need to.  You've got this!

[jweat0043]

As much of a pain as it is I would suggest taking 1 of those 3 days off and plan your weekly menus. You say you settle for easy and fast food so like the other posts said, take time for yourself and plan your week(including your days off).

If you can spare/add 15 min. as soon as you get up or at the end of the day, there are lots of fitness videos on youtube to choose from that will give you a good workout.

While walking around during breaks is great, maybe try walking the stairs to up the intensity or do one of those "office workout" videos if that's possible.

Hopefully this is helpful!