The 15-Minute, 75 day Challenge: Even on the Hard Days
Finding My Groove Again: The 15-Minute, 75 Day Challenge and Upcoming Goals
I’ve always said, “The only thing I am consistent at is being inconsistent.” #adhd. Before my stroke, I thrived on adrenaline—teaching yoga three times a week, fitting in extra classes just for myself, and constantly being on the move. Since the stroke, finding my rhythm has been challenging to say the least. Despite some walking, HIIT workouts, and teaching a weekly yoga class, I have struggled with motivation and low energy.
That’s why I’ve come to realize that showing up on the hard days is more important than ever. I share this with my students because it’s easy to put in the effort when you’re feeling great. But when exhaustion hits and doubt clouds your mind, those are the moments that truly test your commitment and resilience. Showing up on tough days is a testament to your inner strength and your ability to push forward. Progress isn’t measured by ease but by choosing to keep going when it feels impossible. Those moments build genuine strength and reinforce your dedication.
The 15-Minute Daily Challenge
When my friend Lisa’s 15-minute-a-day challenge on Facebook caught my attention, I knew I had to try. The goal? Move intentionally for at least 15 minutes a day for 75 days. I thought, I can handle 15 minutes. Easy, right? Wrong! Some days have been harder than I expected, especially with relentless post-stroke fatigue.
This challenge has reminded me of why I tell my students that it’s the hard days that matter most. This is when you grow! I can’t recall exactly when the challenge began or ends (thanks, short-term memory), but that’s okay. I realize now it was never about an endpoint—it was about starting. Some days, I even do more than 15 minutes. But my biggest win so far? I haven’t given up and have no plans to. My second biggest win? Getting on the treadmill for the first time since my stroke! I was so nervous, but I did it, and now it’s part of my routine alongside walking and yoga. That sense of pride, even from what might seem like a small effort for some, feels like a step toward reclaiming “control” of my life. I also asked a friend to show me the equipment at the gym—another step forward!
Bringing Movement and Positivity to Work (Because That’s My Jam)
In addition to the 75-day challenge, I introduced a daily 10-minute virtual yoga session at noon with my colleagues to help us stretch, manage stress, and create moments of calm during the workday. It’s been a great way to connect and recharge together. To add a touch of fun, I launched “Chococlock” at 2 p.m. each day—a time for everyone to enjoy a piece of chocolate and break up the day with an energy boost. These simple practices remind us that small joys can have a big impact on our day.
Upcoming Adventures: The Turkey Trot and Brigance Brigade 5.7K
I am excited to share that I’ve signed up to walk my first 5K—the Turkey Trot! When I heard from one of my students that dogs are welcome, I knew I had to sign up and bring mine along. I’ll be walking with friends, and yes, we’ll be wearing orange tutus. Lily Rose will be too. Why? Because, as I recently realized, you should never pass up the chance to wear a tutu.
Even more exciting, my niece and I plan to run the Brigance Brigade 5.7K when the date is announced. This event has been on my bucket list for a while but was postponed due to COVID. The race is expected in April, giving me (hopefully) enough time to build stamina and ease into running. Plus, I’ll be raising money for a cause close to my heart, complete with purple tutus for OJ—because adding a touch of fun makes the journey even better!
A big thank you to Lisa and the others in the group for helping me kickstart this new chapter. The sky’s the limit, even on the hard days, because those are the moments that truly shape us.
Okay, time to head out for my walk on this glorious 60-degree day! Now, it’s your turn to get moving! Let’s GOOOOooo!!!!
