What story do you tell yourself?
When I was a little girl in elementary school, I was terrified of having to play kickball in gym class. It was one of my biggest fears–up there with snakes and spiders.
I remember the feeling of dread when the teacher announced it was kickball day. My stomach would instantly feel all knotted up.
She’d usually have us count off to pick teams, so I didn’t have to worry about being picked last; I was more worried about having to try to kick the ball.
When it was my team’s turn to kick, I’d look at the number of kids in front of me and pray that we’d get out before it was my turn. Sometimes, this played out in my favor, but it didn’t work for the whole class.
Inevitably, I’d get my turn up to kick. I’d psych myself out so much that by the time the ball rolled in my direction, I was lucky if I could move. I’d often miss the ball or give a timid kick right back to the pitcher. If I could connect with the ball, I’d race my little heart out to get to first base and hope I made it in time.
Why does any of this matter? Because it was a story that I carried with me for years. I told myself that I wasn’t good at sports, and I definitely wasn’t an athlete. I thought it defined who I was. I thought I was uncoordinated and just no good.
Then, I fell in love with fitness in my teens. This love grew through my 20s and 30s. Even though I wasn’t signing up for kickball tournaments, I was slowly starting to see myself differently. I allowed myself to try new things that the little girl in gym class would’ve been scared to death of.
Then, when I was about 40, I started running. I competed in triathlons, 5ks, half marathons, and marathons. That was a huge turning point for me. I started redefining who I am.
I began to see myself as an athlete. I started thinking like an athlete. I rearranged my schedule around getting sleep so I could get up early to run. I started wearing running clothes and bought “real” running shoes. My friends and family started to see me as an athlete.
It all started with an identity shift inside myself. I had to let go of the little girl who was scared to play kickball. I hugged her and told her it was okay to try something and not be so great. Come to think of it, maybe that’s all I needed to hear back then, too–and perhaps you (or someone you know) need to hear it too. It’s okay to try something and fail. You learn from your failures, not your successes.
So, where are you letting old stories or fears hold you back?
The best part is you can change the story any time you want.
PS – Whenever you’re ready… Here are 4 ways I can help you shift from settling for the results you’re getting to feeling healthier and more vibrant than when you were younger!
- Learn about your body type with my free Dosha quiz. It takes just 2 minutes, and you’ll get a few bonus tips that you can use immediately!
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- Get private coaching with me to step off the health rollercoaster. Send me an email with the words “I’m ready” in the subject line so we can set up a time to chat and see if we’re a good fit to work together.