In recent weeks, I’ve decided to get serious about losing some of that stomach that I so often make fun of. I’d sit at my desk and indulge in Sour Cream and Onion Baked Lays, and hope that my walk to the train was enough to burn it off.

By watching my portion size and making a few sacrifices here and there, I’m actually starting to see results, and that has given me even more excitement for working out. Here are 4 valuable if common-sensical things that happen when you get up and make that effort to go to he gym.

1. You become less on-edge

A healthy body is always a factor when it comes to going to the gym, but many forget that you’re also doing wonders for your mind. If you had a really bad day at work and are feeling down, if you’re pissed off at the person who cut you off on the way home, or if you’re like me and harbor a lot of energy, a quick gym session will chill you out.

2. You feel a sense of accomplishment

Your brain and your muscles with remind you what you achieved that day. Some sore calves here, some strained arms there. Maybe it’s the general tired (good tired) feeling you get after running for a while. Either way, you’ll thank yourself. And if you’ve done nothing else productive for the day, your workout will give you a sense of pride.

3. You’re giving yourself “me-time”

Often in our lives, our time and attention is demanded–by our jobs, love lives, family lives, relationships with friends, annoying yet necessary errands. By taking 30 minutes to work out, you’re allowing yourself some serious “me-time”. You are taking time to do something for yourself, physically and mentally, and it’s time you deserve.

4. You’re getting healthy

Burning calories, getting up and moving around–recommended by doctors everywhere. I’ve even heard that inactivity can be one of the most damaging things to your health. By working out, you’re doing one of the healthiest things for your body. (No, it’s not going to cancel out that Margarita or those tacos you ate, but it’s still worth it).

There you have it. Things you probably already knew, but just needed to remind yourself of. Work out, because it’s the biggest favor you’ll do yourself.