How to train when work and life are busy - This Messy Happy

Aug 13, 2025

Intro

This is a quick summary of How to train when work and life are busy from This Messy Happy. It’s a great watch — we’re breaking it down so you can try the workout today. Be sure to check out the full video for all the details.

Key Points

10‑minute rule: Commit to start every planned session. After 10 minutes, if you’re not feeling it, you can quit guilt‑free and move on. This gives you autonomy and leverages the fact that once you start, there’s a 92 % chance you’ll finish.
The method helped the creator log 10 hours of training in a single, ultra‑busy week while preparing for an Ironman.
The rule works for any discipline – running, swimming, bike, or interval sessions – and lets you squeeze quality work into limited time.
Psychological benefit: you feel in control, reduce guilt, and keep momentum even on the toughest days.

Workout Example (the 10‑minute rule in action)

Plan your session (run, bike, swim, or a mix) for the week.
Set a timer for 10 minutes and start the activity at your usual pace.
After 10 minutes, assess:
- If you’re still motivated: continue the session as planned (e.g., a 20‑minute run, a high‑intensity interval set, or a 45‑km bike ride).
- If you’re exhausted or unmotivated: stop the session, rest, and move on – no guilt.
Repeat for each planned workout. Over a week this can easily add up to 10 hours of training, even on a packed schedule.

Closing Note

Give the 10‑minute rule a try this week – adapt the lengths and paces to fit your own schedule using the Pacing app. You’ll be surprised how much you can accomplish when you just start.