Life is funny.
And it’s never predictable.
If you’d had told me I’d be signing up with NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) 11 years ago…
I would have literally, and audibly, laughed in your face.
But a couple weeks ago, I found myself on a call with a rep…
And yesterday – I found myself officially signing up to get certifications in group fitness, personal training, and nutrition.
This entire experience has led me to take a bit of a walk down memory lane…
And as I’ve merrily strolled through every season…
I’ve realized, every step of the way…
Life’s journey has been leading me to this point.
I’ve always… ALWAYS… loved teaching.
I’ve had a passion for gyms and movement since I was a kid (literally asked for a rec center membership for my 14th birthday – the moment I could get in there!).
People are a true joy for me.
I’ve found myself in leadership roles time and time again, never truly believing myself to be a leader.
Beachbody coaching (now Bodi) led me to realize I love coaching, specifically groups of people.
I’ve spent hours (just for “fun”) reading and taking in info on nutrition and movement over the years.
I have a yearning to experience what others go through – with them.
I feel a huge amount of joy cheering people on…
And observing their successes and triumphs.
After I very intentionally made the decision to leave teaching…
I felt a huge void.
I always thought it was more of a mourning feeling…
As in, I will miss that part of my life.
Many people over the years have asked me if I’d go back to teaching…
Or if I missed it…
And I’ve repeatedly, and rather dramatically, replied with, “Oh my God, NO! Not at all!”
But what I’ve realized…
I do still love teaching.
I am still teaching.
And I’ll continue to teach.
It’s just not necessarily in the capacity of a school classroom.
I once read that if something keeps showing up for you over and over again…
It’s meant for you.
It’s your life’s purpose.
For the last 10 years – I have repeatedly been brought back to my mission to work on myself, coach, bring people together, and learn more about our minds, bodies, and souls.
There is NO DOUBT this is my life’s purpose.
And it brings me great joy to realize teaching is a primal part of that purpose.
My hope for those of you reading this today…
Is that it sparks something inside of you.
That you think about what keeps showing up for you.
What keeps coming back?
What do you quickly shut down when others bring it up?
But REALLY…
If you took a moment to meditate on that…
There’s something deeper and meaningful there.
Hear me loud and clear…
Life is meant to be enjoyed.
Don’t become stuck in something that is taking your energy from you.
It is never too late to try something new…
And really, you might realize it’s the oldest thing that’s been there…
Just waiting for you to listen…
And take that next step.
Believing in us, always.
