After I retired as an Economist from the USDA, I was sure nothing would ever change. Since starting the Rev, I used to feel like my life - especially my work - was a painting. And Im seeing now that I was struggling with letting that go to start a new painting. I look back to when I would work, write, think, relate, parent, challenge, connect, build, learn and love -- and I loved every second and did it with so much passion and purpose because ...It felt like I was using my life to paint a masterpiece. And, if you can imagine, it was like it was set to music.
It never occurred to me there would be more than one painting. And so when I had no more JOY in what I was doing, it didn't realize it was because the work (painting) was done. And I did what I always do...which is force. Push. Overcome. Yet, when I stood back and thought it through, I was missing the personal connection. The ability to work 1 on 1 with PEOPLE and see their greatness and pull it out and THAT is what I want to do. So, its as if its time to put the last painting on the shelf. It is perfect and it is done.
I have more work to do and I have joyfully (but with some sadness mixed in), retired as a gym owner. I have passed the torch. When I found a buyer who was not interested in forcing my clients and trainers through immediate and drastic changes, I knew it was the perfect timing! I did not want my decision to impact others who had trusted us for years!
Because I have enjoyed and loved the journey, but most importantly the significant change for better life I've been able to be a part of for so, so many. A good portion who are still customers.
When it began as a part time gig, I realized that while I had bitten off more than I could chew part time, so I went into constant overtime and my family and I sacrificed quite a bit for my goals. I really wanted to prove to myself and the world that we really can inspire people through fitness and change lives long term. And therefore, this past 10 years have been a dream come true. And I have learned that the full time effort it takes the run a gym well and train is contrary to the lifestyle I want for my family. In addition, running a gym without training made me feel like I wasting away, of no use to anyone.
I can honestly say that unless Im digging in with someone and using my gifts, I am miserable. And so, I am so looking forward to the next chapter doing what I do best and I am SO PUMPED to get to really dig in and help people 1 on 1 again without the worries of a retail store distracting me from them or from my family! I AM SO READY TO CONNECT!!!! Its such a perfect chance to paint another masterpiece and I can feel my enthusiasm and passion rising again! And it feels great!
I can tell that I am supposed to keep painting. Im hearing in my gut that I have more to say, feel and do. So this next year I will begin a new masterpiece. I can already hear the music in the background and the picture on the canvas taking shape:)
So if anyone followed that at all, as usual, that is what needed to fall out. In years past it was fitness thoughts and philosophies and it seemed to help people even tho I would always set out to write whatever was in my head with no clue anyone would read it.
So I wonder who out there is in a grey area, between an old life and new one and feeling a little lost, not having the surety and zeal for the next painting, and patiently walking in faith and knowing we are not alone.
So, if you got this far, stay tuned, because trust me, THERE IS MORE TO COME! I at the very least have been thinking about what is on the horizon and I think as the Mom of (rising) Middle Schooler, and its going to be
...How to organize my LIFE so that I am healthy and fit, not how to force myself to workout...
...How to approach my parenting, homelife, career and still not just flat our quit on my fitness...
...How to strike that balance between whats works for everyone and what works for me...
...How to approach my parenting, homelife, career and still not just flat our quit on my fitness...
...How to strike that balance between whats works for everyone and what works for me...
Our kids will be up and out before we know it, so we (I) don't want my desire to prove myself in fitness or at work distract me from these last few years with the most precious assignment I have...my daughter and my family.
So that is it for now!
Thanks, as always, for reading!!!
Anna Smith
Anna Smith
