15 minutes.
1,815 steps.
Quick strides.
Sustained commitments.
Today is one of those days when we can’t fit in an hour-long walk, so the poop loop is the next best thing.
The Poop Loop
In the ebb and flow of daily life, we often find our schedules crammed with endless tasks, making it tough to stick to our personal commitments. Yet, some routines, like our daily walks with Duke, our beloved 11.5 year-old dog, remain nonnegotiable.
We call our quick, 15-minute strolls around the nearby open field “the poop loop.” It’s just enough time for Duke to take care of business and for us to rack up about 1,815 steps.
This short loop is more than just a bathroom break for Duke; it’s a condensed version of our commitment to daily fresh air and movement, crucial for both human and canine health. Minnesota’s weather—with its biting winters and warmer summers—often dictates the duration and timing of our walks.
But even the briefest outing ensures we maintain this daily ritual, proving that consistency doesn’t have to be rigid. It’s about respecting the routine that works, yet keeping it adaptable to daily demands and changes.
During these walks, we seize the moment for mindfulness, noticing the subtle day-by-day shifts in our surroundings, or for catching up on each other’s lives. Whether we’re reflecting in silence or planning our next home improvement project, this time is our sanctuary. It’s a time to talk about anything from travel plans to what’s for lunch. It’s our moment to breathe, to pause, and to connect.
And Duke? He doesn’t mind the brevity. For him, any walk is a joyous outing. The poop loop is a testament to staying flexible within our routines, ensuring we honor the joy they bring, even if briefly.
So, whatever your daily nonnegotiables—be it exercise, reading, journaling, or connecting with loved ones—consider the “poop loop” philosophy. It’s about making the most of the time you have, adapting to life’s rhythms, and embracing even the shortest moments for their full worth.
After all, something is always better than nothing, especially when it comes to keeping the spirit of your commitments alive.
Two Links Du Jour
1. The Health Benefits of Daily Walks With Your Dog – HelpGuide.org is an independent nonprofit that runs one of the world’s leading mental health websites.
2. The Magic of Committing to a Specific Goal by James Clear, author of Atomic Habits.
Two Minutes Du Jour 
One response to “The Poop Loop Philosophy”
[…] In advance of Monday morning, I review my next two weeks. I look at my calendar to see when I have meetings and what I need to do to prepare—things to read, write, create, etc. I also factor in my non-negotiables. […]
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