The road to the World Cup is paved with long hours, grueling practices and back-to-back commitments—and no one knows this routine better than World Cup and Olympic athlete Julie Ertz. Effortlessly juggling a jam-packed schedule filled with Chicago Red Stars practice, national team training and the Ertz Family Foundation’s philanthropic efforts has become second nature to this soccer champion. Ertz stays motivated through her early mornings and late nights by focusing on foods that fuel her mind and body throughout the day—and almonds are an important part of her balanced diet. The natural protein (6 grams) and fiber found in almonds powers Ertz through anything the day may hold—whether it’s a 5-mile run or a late evening event—so she can seize every opportunity to own her day.
Ertz is an expert at making the most of every day and suggests incorporating the following habits into your routine so you can do the same:
Start Mornings with a Stretch. Mornings are so important in setting the tone for the rest of the day. Anyone can get themselves into their “own it” zone by making time for a good stretch to loosen up and feel energized to conquer the day ahead.
View Food as Fuel. Fueling the body with nutritious foods provides the energy needed for anyone to own their everyday, every day. Portable, healthy snacks like almonds are easy to put in a bag for enjoying on the go and have the protein (6 grams) and fiber needed for the day ahead.
Find Little Ways to Motivate Yourself. Daily inspiration is important to getting into your zone and staying motivated – and you can get it from your family, friends or coworkers. Keep a few inspirational personal items handy like handwritten notes, photos or trinkets that reminds you of the people who are rooting for you to succeed.
“My days are full throttle, so I need to be in top shape—both physically and mentally,” said Ertz. “With the help of almonds, I can power through anything from sprints and drills on the field to media conferences and galas off the field. Almonds provide the natural, long-lasting energy that helps me seize every opportunity to truly own my everyday, every day.
Whether it’s practicing relentlessly for the World Cup competition or even getting a new business off the ground, our Own It Experts have great tips for harnessing those Own It moments. ClassPass founder Payal Kadakia understands that each day is a chance to own it in a new way. She believes that preparation is key for productivity, snacking on natural and healthy foods like almonds is essential to powering through back-to-back meetings and that your “you-time” is essential to maintaining clarity in an on-the-go lifestyle. Home renovation experts Ashley and Andy Williams juggle their home renovation business with the demands of parenthood. The couple relies on almonds to fuel them through everything from complex home renovation projects to the daily after school routine.
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