We all have a hard time getting ourselves into the exercise mindset sometimes. (Yes, I admit, there are days I'm so busy I'm tempted to skip it, too.) And when life gets complicated, it's even easier to think of reasons we just "can't" afford to take time out for exercise.

If you're in a high-pressure job, an entrepreneur, or someone who works long or unusual hours, you might find it especially hard to take time out regularly for healthful activity. How do you justify carving out time and effort for exercise when your to-do list is longer than your day?

Well, it's all in how you look at it. Think of exercise instead as something you can't afford NOT to do. Here are two seemingly opposite, but equally valid reasons you MUST get serious about exercise to continue to be successful in life, including your work.

1. Getting out--even for exercise--is an opportunity to network. At its core, networking is nothing more than meeting people. But if you don't ever leave your office, you're missing a chance to grow your contact list. Networking can mean more clients and business. And that, of course, leads to professional and financial success. You never know who you'll run into at the gym, yoga class, a walk up the stairs at work during lunch, community pool, or Pilates studio. If you can't look at exercise as fun and stress release, then stay in the game to increase your database--and collect those health benefits along the way.

Action step: Sign up for an activity that will put you among other people. And don't waver if there's a fee involved. Think of it as a necessary business expense that comes with a side benefit of leaving you clear-headed and refreshed.

2. Escape the phones, the to-do list, the kids, and the overwhelm. Let exercise be your ticket to some much needed peace and quiet. Make getting exercise about you and your life, your health, your heart, your brain, your weight...well, I could go on, but you get the idea. It's a way for you to connect with yourself and make a meaningful contribution to your present and future wellbeing.

Action step: Treat yourself to a physical activity that you really enjoy. So you don't enjoy spin class? Try ballroom dancing instead. Weight training too focused to be fun? Start a casual basketball game at the neighborhood court. Exercise comes in many flavors, and there's one for every taste. Don't choose the ones that make you cringe in anticipation. Remember, "wellness" means being healthy in mind as well as body. Joy defuses anxiety. Breathe. Relax. Feel damaging stress leave and healing energy take its place, knowing that you've made--and honored--a commitment to yourself.

Are you ready to think about getting in shape, taking responsibility for your health, and doing what's necessary to keep your immune system and wellbeing in optimal working order? Take a moment now to think about how you can--yes, you can!--fit a little healthful activity into your day. It's worth the effort. A healthy body and mind are more productive, and that means rewards, both personal and professional.