Today I’m ranting.

I don’t typically use my blog or any of my social media platforms to rant or blow off steam; I usually try to focus on the positives in life because I figure there’s usually a good sweat or a delicious glass of wine for that. But today feels different for some reason. Today I’m ranting and ain’t nobody gonna stop me.

And yes, I got a deliciously hard sweat in this morning and no, it wouldn’t have served me better to just have a damn glass of wine at noon. Today, I need to write. It just feels different and I’m going with it. So deal.

And before I give anyone (errr my husband) the wrong idea (or an ulcer – ahem, Casey), I’m not sitting here angrily tapping away at my keyboard. I’m not grumpy. Or in a bad mood. I’m just feeling a little fired up. And it’s probably because this particular little bee in my bonnet stung two of the three things I’m most passionate about: my business and my dedication to fitness (both the industry and my personal commitment).

The third thing I’m most passionate about is my dog, just in case you were wondering. 🙂 And nobody best be messing with her…

Without getting into too much of the nitty gritty (all those silly details), I’ll just say this.

I’ve learned a lot in the 5 years since starting my business; truthfully, I’ve learned more than I ever could have imagined. I’ve definitely learned more than I ever learned in college , or any class I’ve taken or at any previous job I’ve held but the lessons haven’t all just been about business, specifically  (though I have learned a great deal about that as well).

I’ve also learned a lot about myself – my strengths and weaknesses, my passions, my shortcomings, my ability to deal with failure, stress, pressure, rejection and the haters and even how to lead – and it has been (and will continue to be) a humbling journey.

And while I’m still learning, each and every single day, there’s one thing I know for certain. Connections are everything. EVERYTHING. Seriously, they are everything.

If I hadn’t poured my heart and soul into creating a community that I would be proud to be a part of, I would have nothing to show for it. There would be no business. I have always been proud of my ability to put others first, to help others shine and provide opportunities or connections (or just a helping hand) whenever I can. And it’s not something I do for a return. It’s just something I do. It’s innate. It’s part of who I am. And no matter what happens, I’m never letting go of that piece of me. No matter how many times somebody takes it for granted, insults me, belittles me or takes advantage of me, I’ll still go out of my way to connect people – to provide help, new opportunities, connections or even just to help broaden their network.

So whatever you do out there, keep connecting and putting your best self forward. Don’t lash out or insult others, no matter what the circumstance might be. Don’t throw negative comments at somebody just to make them feel small, it doesn’t look good on you. Be kind. Be respectful. And work hard. And the rest will fall in place.

Sorry for the rant. Love to you all!

Stay sweaty (and positive) friends!

XOXO

Jamie

And remember – don’t listen to the haters. Just handstand it out and keep moving forward.