As defined in Merriam Webster Dictionary:
in·spi·ra·tion noun ˌin(t)-spə-ˈrā-shən, -(ˌ)spi-
: something that makes someone want to do something or that gives someone an idea about what to do or create : a force or influence that inspires someone
: a person, place, experience, etc., that makes someone want to do or create something
: a good idea
Fitness has been part of my life for a long time now: for myself, and helping others through one-on-one training and group fitness. I hate to admit it but sometimes, after an especially long day training others and helping them reach their fitness goals, I sometimes forget about myself or just don’t want to (gasp).
I was recently re-acquainted with an amazing woman from my past that has forced me to take a hard look at myself and refocus my attention on being the best me that I can be for both myself and for my clients.
We went to school together, years ago. We were in different grades and didn’t have a friendship but we knew of each other. Years after graduation we both ended up moving to Chestermere and knowing a lot the same people. Her two oldest children are the same age as my children so we frequently ran into each other at different events or at school. When our paths crossed it was never more than a smile and a quick pleasantry before moving on.
In January, she contacted me through my website, looking to join one of my classes. I thought it would be great that I could teach her what I know about fitness. It turns out she has taught me a lot more.
At the same time joining my class, she told me of a little challenge that she does with her friends. The challenge is simple: each person tracks their fitness activities for the week and reports back at the end of each week. Over 12 weeks points are tallied and a winner is identified. There is no money or prizes involved. The winner simply gets bragging rights. She asked if I wanted to join the challenge. My competitiveness was all over this: I am a trainer and fitness is my livelihood. I have this challenge in the bag!
Full stop. A week into the challenge, after my first report in for points, she tells me I can’t use my classes or my sessions with clients for points.
WHAT?!? My thought was I am working out! Especially in classes, I am moving. I have to demonstrate what the class is doing and be a part of it. I get winded, I get sweaty.
As much as I can get my heart rate elevated in a class, I am not working to my full potential. I could push myself harder if I wasn’t teaching, explaining and watching to ensure the class has proper technique. She was absolutely right, I can’t include what I am teaching others as my own workout.
In order to stay in this challenge I need to stop being so lazy at the end of busy days and focus on myself. I need to do my own workouts and not let myself get away with just partial workouts through the day.
If that little wake up wasn’t enough, last week this same individual shared with me and about 20 of her other friends a quote that she stumbled across.
Be yourself. Be cool.
Be smart. Be hot. Be SEXY.
Be FREE. Be fun. Be bold.
Be happy. Be positive.
Be beautiful. Be strong.
Be AMAZING. Be brilliant.
Be courageous. Be YOU.
She could have read that and kept it to herself. She could have posted on Facebook, like so many of us do, in hopes that maybe one or two other people. Instead, she sent us each an email with the quote and a summary of what the quote means to her and remind each of us how awesome we are at being ourselves.
Inspiration can be found in the most unusual places. I have been inspired. Thank you for inspiring me to be better.
Who has inspired you? Better yet, who can you inspire?
