DEDICATED SOULS

What motivates and inspires you to get up and get moving everyday?

I have always enjoyed getting up early in the morning.  The world seems clean, rested and ready for new adventures.  When you combine that with a good workout, nothing can stop you!

What motivates you to stay consistent with your workout schedule, professional schedule and personal life?

I have finally learned that I am in charge of my destiny and that only I can make the necessary changes.  There are no quick fixes, only consistency pays off.  That being said, if I miss a workout or have an extra piece of cheese, I don't beat myself up; I'll just work a little harder the next time I am on the bike.

What inspires you to reach for the next level (personally or professionally)?

I love learning, trying and doing new things.  Life is too short not to try anything.  Actually I truly enjoy pushing myself just to see how I will react and what I can do.  Many times I don't succeed, but that is ok because I know I tried.

What's your best advice to offer someone who struggles to stay consistent?

Make it an appointment on your schedule, and tell people about it.  That way you have to do it!

Guilty pleasure?

Martinis!  It feels so luxurious and forbidden to have one on a Friday evening.

Healthy food favorite?

Edamame.  Great snack and addition to almost anything.  I make a wonderful Spicy Edamame Cole Slaw, mmmmm...

What's the biggest challenge that you face everyday (and overcome everyday by staying consistent)?

Giving myself credit for things I do well and accepting who I am.

What do you do for a living? Do you have a spouse, children, grandchildren or pets that you adore?

I think I have the best job in the world!  I work for the Cleveland Foundation as a gift planning officer, which really means I am a fundraiser.  Every day I meet the most amazing people, and have the pleasure of helping them figure outhow they want to make our community better.  Some have $5 and others have $5Million; the amount does not matter, it is their intention that blows me away!

No kids, but a super supportive husband (Fred) and two adorable dogs.  Both dogs are rescues and they show me how to live life to the fullest and enjoy every day.  

Favorite vacation spot?

There are so many good places to visit, but if I could live anywhere I would move back to Miami.  Every day in Miami can be a vacation, plus the weather makes it easy to stay fit!

How does regular physical exercise encourage you to stay spiritually connected to the Universe, God, Jesus, or higher power of your belief?

I am not a religious person, but I believe in doing the best you can with what you have.  Something amazing happens when you work out with a group of people; even though we are all focused on ourselves, we recognize that we are going through this together.  We are willing to help each other (tips for how to keep your feet in the TRX loops!) and celebrate each other's accomplishments.  The support I get from people I don't even know keeps me motivated and coming back.  I feel truly alive and a part of the Universe when my body is moving and doing what I want it to do.