Today, for the first time, I worked out with a partner. This may seem like nothing, but it was something...everything. Everyone that knows me, knows that I'm a sporty spice. So, one of my servers asked me to go to the gym with her and help her "work it out". She's been feeling really down about herself, and wanting show herself some love. And, if there's one thing i've learned-exercise will fricking change your life in all the right ways. I jumped at the chance to bond with her, and at assisting her in overcoming her body image issues. Don't get me wrong; I'm not all saturated in confidence and walking around like I dont give a shit. I care, of course I care. I'm a woman in a world obsessed with perfect bodies and everyday I battle that.
So, at 11am, I met my friend at the gym. She told me she was nervous. I informed her not to worry, and only to focus on the movements and breathing. She laughed nervously. I decided I wanted her to get a seriously ass-kicking workout to prove to herself what she was capable of. I put her on a program I am most fond of-20 minutes cardio, 20 minutes of weights and ending with another 20 minutes of cardio, all of this with no breaks. She was sweating her ass off, but she had the biggest smile on her face and that evoked something in me. I love making people feel good about themselves. Everytime I pushed her and told her to give me one more. She screamed, but she did it.
I know how cheesy this all sounds, but truly, my helping her helped me even more. I came to see that it's time for me to make a career change. One that involves the heart, and not so much the wallet. Sure it sounds quixotic, but I believe that if you love what you do the money will follow. And if it doesnt, well...how bad can it be to wake up everyday loving your job and knowing you will help someone to love themselves just a little bit more.
