When I was younger I had a lot of dreams, hell I still do, more than I even think I could have fathomed having at that young age. What I do remember is that I always knew that I wanted to do what I loved. I wanted to help people. When I was younger that took form through writing music and sharing it with the world (or anyone who would listen). I always felt like I had so much to say and I got to express those words through songwriting and later, share them through performing. It was and is a beautiful outlet to express the way I feel. I used to feel, and sometimes still do, that writing is the best way for me to express my emotions (hence the beginning of this blog). Although songwriting and singing is still very much so a love of mine and my most creative outlet, there was this part of me that felt like I had more to say than just what could fit in a few verses and a chorus. Cue my career change.
In 2013 I started getting into fitness. I had always been active and loved the way I felt when I would move. Growing up as a dancer, I could use my body to express the things that my words couldn’t. It was the power of movement that truly got me to enter into the career that I have now. That year I started teaching dance and fitness classes when I found myself in a spin class. The instructor didn’t just tellyou what to do, they connected with you on a spiritual, physical, and emotional level. During that time I had found myself in a really dark place. My self esteem was low, I didn’t believe in myself the way I used to, and ultimately I don’t think that I felt safe in the skin I was in. I started going to these classes as an escape and it became my safe place and my sanctuary. I would cry on those bikes, laugh, dance, and feel completely free of the place that I was in emotionally. It was then that I truly discovered the link between mental and physical fitness. I was able to discover the power of movement, especially in a group setting.
I healed the emotional pain that I was going through in those studios and the way that I was teaching completely transformed. I went on to get more certifications (and I am absolutely not done) and I started to get more vulnerable in the classes I teach. Of course we work out to look our best and feel our best, but my intention for fitness has changed drastically over the last few years. I encourage every class I teach to set an intention. Let that intention drive you to a place that your mind will try and tell you that you can’t get to. I urge them to feel a purpose with every step that they take and to move like you mean it. When we move together in a group, there’s a motivating factor that I truly don’t believe can be found anywhere else. I give my whole heart to these classes (I am usually exhausted mentally and physically after teaching but it is worth every ounce that I give) and they give me so much more in return.
I had always wanted a job that I love, that I feel connected to, and that can help people reach a change that is just waiting to be tapped into within them. I LOVE what I do. I have had moments of doubt, disappointment, not feeling good enough, and questioning if I made the right decision, but the fulfillment that I receive after teaching is like nothing else I have ever experienced. That is because I am living my purpose. The one that we all have inside of us and is just waiting to be tapped into. The power of movement is one that can only be experienced, my words can’t ever seem to do it justice. I never dread going to work because every single day I have an opportunity to connect with people, to encourage them to change and give more, and ultimately I do the same. My clients inspire me to give more especially when I don’t want to or don’t feel like I have anything to give.
So I guess you could say these dreams came true. I have more. I always will. And there are new destinations that I’d like to reach within the career I am in. But i know that when I follow my heart, trust in my purpose, and work to inspire others to be their best selves, I really can’t have it any better. That’s some serious #joblove right there. It’s out there. For each and every one of us to go after and figure it out through some...
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