What Are Your Keystone Habits?
Repeat after me: I am worthy of routines that make me feel good.
Welcome back to the Weekly Hurdle! This newsletter is free and will stay free thanks to sponsors and the individuals that opt-in to give. Your support is really appreciated!
Presented by AG1:
Slowing down is the fastest way to speed up.
I’ve been thinking on this a lot lately. After taking a 2-week season break on the show, I not only had some time to find clarity around how I wanted to move forward (new episode cadence, Monday and Fridays, versus the three-episodes-a-week model that I’ve stuck to for years), but I also had more time to focus on myself. Time to move my body. See my people. Make smart choices. Now, I feel a motivation to create quality content that feels rejuvenated, excitable, and candidly — necessary.
Now, routines that felt like they were — at one point — slipping are now easier. Back into the fold. I’m back to regular journaling, strength workouts, breath work; it all comes full circle.
In Charles Duhigg’s book, The Power of Habit, he discusses the idea of keystone habits. We have habits everywhere in our lives, but certain routines — i.e. keystone habits — lead to a cascade of other actions because of them.
For me, that’s exercise. When I exercise, there’s a much grander chance that all of the things will fall into place. When I work out, I want to eat better. I sleep better. I feel more productive and clear. And when I don’t? Things start to fall apart across the board.
You are worthy of routines that make you feel good.
So, the question arises: What’s your keystone habit? Maybe it’s eating healthy or volunteering more or cooking regularly or talking to your loved ones.
Tell me: What are you doing when everything falls into place? What is your keystone habit?
Keep hurdling,

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
I’m Listening To: “How I Paid Off $100,000 Of Student Loan Debt” from Balanced Black Girl
A huge congratulations to my friend Les, who recently signed with Dear Media! This episode’s full of actionable, helpful takeaways — whether you’re dealing student loan debt or not.
I’m Reading: Remember Love: Words for Tender Times by Cleo Wade
Damn, this book feels appropriate for how I feel lately. On the heals of Heart Talk, this new pick from one of my favorite writers Cleo Wade is a collection of poetry that explores how we can find light in periods of lostness, love for ourselves after heartbreak, okay-ness in the midst of change, and strength in letting go.
I’m Watching: Suits
This gives me Morning Show vibes. Never watched this series when it originally aired, but I can confidently say that I’m addicted now that it’s rejuvenated on Netflix.
Gear I’m Loving: Wunder Train 6” Short With Pockets
I probably get two messages per day about my go-to training shorts. These have a pocket on each leg, which keep my phone, cards, and keys in place, and also tote tons of room for gels if you’re heading out for a long run. I’d size up!
Quote I’m Loving: "Your relationships will rarely be healthier than your self-esteem." — Unknown
Thanks to AG1 — the daily Foundational Nutrition supplement that supports whole-body health — for supporting Hurdle.
I drink it literally every day. I originally gave AG1 a try years ago because I was tired of taking so many supplements and wanted a single solution that supports my entire body and covers my nutritional bases. Plus, I was popping way too many gummy vitamins. I wanted better gut health, a boost (or similar) in energy, immune system support, and also wanted a supplement that actually tastes great. I shake it up every morning after my workout, and truly it makes me feel energized and confident knowing that I’m doing something good for my body by giving it the nutrition I deserve — including 75 whole food-sourced ingredients, prebiotics, probiotics, adaptogens, and superfoods.
If you want to take ownership of your health, it starts with AG1. Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND five free AG1 travel packs with your first purchase. Go to drinkAG1.com/hurdle.
NEW PODCAST EPISODE🎧: 269. Diego Perez (Yung Pueblo), Poet & Best-Selling Author
From the moment I first read Diego's writing, I was enamored. The opportunity to start off season 15 with his interview is a true honor. For episode 269, Diego — known to his millions of followers at Yung Pueblo, which stands for "young people" — opens up about his inspiration for writing. He talks about immigrating to this country, growing up in poverty, and his battle with drugs in college that lead him to a massive #hurdlemoment and life change — ultimately taking on meditation and completely pivoting toward a more holistic, healthier lifestyle. He shares the inspiration for his latest book, The Way Forward, and offers up advice on how to prioritize and communicate better within relationships.
HOW CAN I SUPPORT HURDLE?
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Another (weekly) Hurdle conquered. Catch you guys next week.
I'm like you - exercise is my keystone habit and I feel lost without it. It's been a struggle the past month with my travel schedule and getting sick because I haven't had my regular exercise routine. Instead, I've tried to find another cornerstone habit that will allow me not to stress out and will keep me aligned. I'm trying for breathwork and a simple morning meditation for now.
Exercise is also my keystone habit. Being a critical care nurse and working long shifts, it is easy to get not only physically burned out, but mentally as well. Even when I don’t feel like it, I always feel SO much clarity after a workout.