31 January, 2026
The golden rule for finding time for exercise, as Warren Buffett says, is: “Do not save what is left after spending, but spend what is left after saving.” Similarly, please don’t exercise from the time left after your daily routine. Instead, exercise first and then adjust your routine in the remaining time. For an hour of exercise, you get two to three hours of productive time per day due to reduced optimum sleep time; more reinvigorating and refreshing sleep; higher levels of mental alertness and focus; better decision-making due to reduced stress levels; and an increased sense of well-being and happiness.
An hour of exercise is an investment, not an expense of time. So when you exercise for an hour, you are not left with 23 hours in the day but at least 25 hours in the day (24 − 1 + 2). When you say you don’t have time for exercise, look into your eyes in the mirror and say to yourself: this is pure self-deception. It is a lie. The real reason is laziness. It takes effort to exercise, while enjoying social media on our couch is so convenient and entertaining. We naturally sway toward ease.
As a life coach, I see people who have become diabetic and hypertensive yet refuse to break out of their comfort zone to exercise. Let us resolve now to take that one hour out for a sport, running, swimming, or at least brisk walking (120 steps per minute). If you have a medical condition, please consult your physician before you start.
Remember, health is a trust from Allah (SWT), and we may be questioned about it on the Day of Judgment.