Getting outside your comfort zone can be a little scary. . .but that's where confidence is developed and satisfaction is achieved.
It's never been my lifelong dream to start a small business. I have good social skills. I'm knowledgable in exercise science. I'm passionate about triathlon, and helping others achieve personal wellness. And after being a middle school physical/health educator for 32 years, I know I can teach. So, creating my own coaching and personal training company seemed like a logical retirement hobby. But what did I know about becoming a business owner?? Nada. It was time to become a student again.
After putting some closure to my 2017 triathlon season, my first step was to attend a course at a local community college which focused on starting a small business. It made my head hurt, but got my wheels in motion. In a year's time I learned how to set up an LLC, obtain liability insurance, develop a brand logo, establish competitive pricing, write contracts, create a website, manage payments, and utilize social media. In addition, I've spent the better part of the last four months navigating the complexities of taking an online course to become a Certified Personal Trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. That really took my brain to a whole new level!
My biggest lesson was about being open to enlisting the help of others when forging into uncharted territory. I'm not a graphic designer, an athletic counselor, an accountant, or a lawyer. . .but I now have access to some of the best in the business. Thank you Kevin Meany, Brian Labore, Ron Greenfield, Kevin Kearney, Stan Kroder, Peter Vincent and Andrew Vincent.
I don't know where this next journey is going to take me, but I like where I am. They say that, "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." What will your new beginning be?