The Need to Experiment

I don’t feel great (physically) about myself right now. That’s a big thing to say.

I’ve made space for so much—launching a book, adjusting to a new routine at a new school, being present for my girls—but there’s something about self that has felt a bit elusive.

My body. My energy. My habits.

It’s been a big shift going from walking two miles each way to school every day (easily clocking 20 miles per week as part of my work commute) to just six blocks (about 3 miles total per week). My closer school has had a positive impact on many routines—I love coming home for lunch—but my movement, my eating, and how I feel in my body? That’s still something I’m figuring out.

An Inspired Nudge

Last month, I had a Zoom call with Patty Morrissey, who’s now working with Marie Kondo as they launch the KonMari Club. For the first time, I got to be in the same (virtual) space with Marie Kondo, someone who inspired so much of my own personal tidying journey.

As part of the club, they’re inviting participants to name self-care experiments each month, and February’s focus is on body. That sparked something for me.

I talk about 30-day experiments in Chapter 3 of Tidy Up Your Life. You identify a new routine that you think could enhance or support your life, and you fully commit to trying out that routine for thirty days. During that time you reflect, stay curious, and consider what you’re learning about yourself along the way. 

And I realized: I already knew what I wanted to experiment with.

The Experiment: Will I Enjoy Working With A Coach

For a long time, I’ve been intrigued by the idea of working with an online health coach. For over a year, I’ve been following a coach in the UK on Instagram who specializes in working with teachers. Last summer I trained for my first triathlon. But figuring out my own plan during the school year—the mental load of navigating food, exercise, and structure—has felt overwhelming.

So I finally reached out. I scheduled a call. That felt like a huge first step. 

Why a coach? Because it’s a way for me to stop doing all the work. I’m outsourcing the thinking work. I’m asking for support in creating a new routine. On my own, I might be able to figure it out, but I want guidance, support, encouragement. And—midway through the call—the health coach said, “You’re going to be laughing with it, mate.” That’s the energy I need right now.

The Mindset Shift

This experiment isn’t about transformation. I’m not trying to become a new person, and I’m certainly not training to be a fitness model (although never say never 🤣). 

It’s about curiosity. About seeing if I enjoy working with a coach. That’s it.

So this February, my question is simple: Will I enjoy working with a health coach?

I’m excited to find out.