Two years.
Two years ago today I signed the paperwork to officially take over as owner of B3 Gym.
Little did I know that two weeks after purchasing the gym, we’d be forced to close our doors as a global pandemic rocked the world.
To say that the last two years have been tough is definitely an understatement.
While my nutrition and fitness have stayed consistent through it all, stress has wreaked havoc on my body and my mental health. My performance in the gym has suffered. I’m feeling way more aches and pains than I’ve ever experienced. I’ve gained weight. My confidence and self-esteem have taken a hit. My body doesn’t look how I want it to, and it isn’t able to perform at a level I’m used to.
Some days the stress is overwhelming, debilitating even. Some days, I’m paralyzed by the uncertainty of it all. So many gyms and fitness studios have been forced to close their doors over the past two years and the unfortunate reality is that the industry is still struggling.
The worst part about navigating this whole experience is the feeling of being completely alone.
I am the sole owner of my business, and I am also single. I don’t have a business partner or life partner to rely on to provide me with support. I don’t have someone there to pick me up when I’m feeling down or provide thoughtful business advice to help grow my gym.
I talk about the importance of finding a strong support system with my nutrition clients all the time. I finally realized that I should follow my own damn advice.
I started seeing a therapist once a month to work on my mental health. We focus so much on physical health, but mental health is just as important. I’m thankful to have a sounding board to help me work through my feelings of doubt and my fear of failure. I’ve become so much stronger mentally and so much more self-aware.
I’ve joined local networking groups to connect with other small business owners. Knowing that I’m not alone in this struggle has been extremely comforting.
My relationship with my parents has never been stronger. I’m so thankful for all of their support and encouragement.
I’ve been working my whole life to find my purpose. Everything I’ve done has led me to this point. The farther I get on this journey called life, the more I realize that I am called to help people. Helping people realize how strong they are, not only physically but also mentally. Helping people improve their fitness, but also get healthier and live the life they’ve always wanted. Helping people develop confidence, improve self-esteem, and truly love themselves.
Officially becoming a gym owner was one of the happiest days of my life. And while the past two years have been challenging, I’ve never been more thankful to have so many amazing people in my life. I am so thankful for all of my amazing gym members, past and present, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to change so many lives. You all will never know how much you’ve changed mine.
Stay Healthy,
Coach Karen