Turning 1, and Turning 30

Looking back at where I was a year ago, the old me would have never thought that so much could change in just 365 days. When I decided that it was time for The Haute Sweat to go live, I never thought my dream of writing and being a trainer/instructor would be a goal that would be achieved in one year. It was a goal, just one on a more modest timeline. It was also because I was still a little chicken shit of making it a “dive in with both feet” kind of thing like my heart told me to do back when I talked about my goals this past year here.

It wasn’t until I found myself 20 pounds heavier, and stuck in soul-sucking 9-5 job that I realized I was making the same mistakes all over again by staying within the safety net. Regardless of the fact that I was studying for my personal trainer exam (half ass-edly, let’s be real) and working a job on my free time that complimented my goals, I was still putting my potential on hold. I wasn’t 20 anymore. I didn’t have the luxury of time to put things off, and more importantly, I was sick of being an angry person that stress ate. Without an official job on the other end, I traded my Louboutins for stretchy pants anyway, and never looked back. It has been the best thing that’s ever happened to me. When you take a running leap in the direction of your gut instincts, nothing but good things can come of it, and I can tell you that those things sure have.

I’ve learned more about myself in the past 3 months than I ever did in my twenties. Turning 30 in three short months is still a little intimidating for me. Did I think that I would be a lot farther down a specific career path by now? Yep. Did I think that I would have a lot more things figured out? You effing BET. However, I believe turning 30 truly means that you learn to see life as it really is: really fucking hard. It’s a constant lesson. Growing up means learning to understand and appreciate the work it takes to become something, and learning to accept failure and grow from it. As I look back on the last year of my twenties, I can honestly say for the first time in my life, that I am truly proud of myself and the road I have paved for the future.

It’s only January, but my new career as a personal trainer/instructor/writer is already snowballing into some serious success. I am grateful for those who have mentored me and cheered for me along the way this year, and cannot express my gratitude for you. Lululemon Run Club and Barry’s SF, I’m talking to you. Additionally, thanks Mom & Dad for the camera and loving support of my calling as a fitness professional, even though you don’t see the big picture just yet.

Here’s to another year of kicking ass on the blog, on the trail, and in the studio. San Francisco, you’ve been warned.