Be Humble

Hello again!

I’ve abandoned by blog yet once again, but this time, for good reason. I’ve had an extremely difficult year, full of many ups and downs and some health issues. I left Los Angeles, and started a new life in a more quiet mid-west town. People thought that I was crazy for leaving Southern California for the cold and snow, but to be honest, I knew if I hadn’t left the busy and often chaotic environment of L.A., at least for awhile, my health would continue to decline. I’ll post more on that journey later.

What I’ve come to realize is that as fitness professionals, we must remain humble. When I first started my career, I thought I had all the answers. It’s very apparent to me when I look back at my blog posts from seven or even just a few years ago that I was just a silly kid trying to figure out the answers. The older I get the more I realize that I need to be more humble when it comes to my career. I don’t know all the answers and I certainly never will. I get weary of hearing fitness professionals and health coaches claim that their way is “the way” to good health and wellness. You’ve probably heard of all the different ways to eat to lose weight and live a long, long life: paleo, vegan, vegetarianism, low-fat, Atkins, caveman, fruitarian, flexitarian, the list goes on and on. Trainers and fitness professionals can be so adamant that their way is the way to good health, when in reality, we really have no clue. What I do know is that we are all so different genetically, and that there is no “one way” for all.

Of course I eat as clean as possible. Organic and non-processed have been part of my life for many years now. I spend more money on food than I do anything else because I do believe what we put into our bodies plays a dramatic role in how we look, how we feel, and how we will age. But that’s just my opinion, and I do not know whether or not this lifestyle will lead to a long and healthy life (although I strongly believe it will!). There are many people who live long lives abusing their bodies throughout. They are most likely the minority, but they are out there. I eat this way because I love it and it makes me feel great. It’s my belief that we should eat closer to Mother Nature, have respect for animals and our land, and that we shouldn’t shove chemicals and processed foods into our bodies. But I’m also realistic; I don’t expect every client of mine to adhere to my belief system. My hope is that trainers and health coaches will recognize this and be a bit more flexible in their recommendations to clients. After all, they are trusting us with their health, and we do have the potential to either help it or harm it long-term. Quite a huge responsibility.

Anyway, I guess the whole point of this post is to recognize that I am constantly learning and changing what I feel will help me and my clients feel their best. It’s constant work but it’s worth it. I love what I do, and I can’t imagine doing anything else; however, I no longer want to shove my philosophy down anyone’s throat anymore. Give advice, teach, research, and educate, but always remain modest.

Until next time,

Jeannette