Month: February 2025

Friendships come and go, but every once in a while, you find a bond so strong that no distance, time, or life event can break it. That’s the story of my two best friends and me- Shanti and Melissa—forty five years of laughter, tears, adventures, and unwavering support. A true roller coaster ride, but one we wouldn’t trade for anything.

We met as kids, in a kindergarten, in Rembau, Negeri Sembilan and grew into teenagers navigating the chaos of high school, and then into women shaping our own paths. Life took us in different directions—miles apart, different careers, separate families—but never once did we drift away. No matter where life placed us, we always found our way back to each other.

We’ve celebrated victories, whether it was career milestones, marriages, or the births of our children. We’ve held each other through heartbreak, personal struggles, and the unimaginable pain of losing their fathers and getting through tough moments with my father being sick now.

Through every challenge, every tear, every moment of doubt, we’ve been the voices of reason, the shoulders to cry on, and the ones who remind each other of our worth.

Our yearly holidays together have been our sacred tradition—our girls’ getaway, where we reconnect, reminisce, and remind ourselves of the magic of our bond. Whether it’s lying on a beach, hiking through a new city, or simply sharing a bottle of wine in a cozy Airbnb, these moments are our reset button. We laugh until we cry, share our deepest fears and silliest memories, and sometimes, we even fight. But the love never wavers, because we know that in the end, we are each other’s home.

Not everyone is lucky enough to have a friendship that withstands the tests of time, but we are blessed beyond words. Through every high and low, we’ve held on, proving that true friendship isn’t about proximity—it’s about the unbreakable connection of hearts.

Here’s to my best friends forever (BFF), Shanti and Melissa—forty five years down, and a lifetime to go.

Being a fitness instructor is more than just a job; it’s a way of life. It’s a passion that fuels every step, every rep, and every moment spent guiding others toward their goals. But behind the high-energy classes, the motivational speeches, and the rewarding transformations, there’s a journey filled with personal challenges, mental blocks, and the constant struggle for balance.

Passion That Drives Everything

Fitness isn’t just something we do; it’s who we are. The ability to inspire, educate, and empower others makes every early morning and late-night session worth it. Seeing a client progress from doubt to confidence, from struggle to strength, is one of the most fulfilling aspects of this career. The passion for fitness doesn’t fade—it evolves, deepening with each person we help and each milestone we reach ourselves.

The Mental Blocks We Face

Despite the love for the work, fitness instructors aren’t immune to struggles. Mental blocks creep in—self-doubt, exhaustion, and the occasional feeling of burnout. Some days, the motivation that comes so naturally seems hard to grasp. Pushing others to be their best while feeling stuck in your own head can be challenging. But overcoming these moments makes us stronger, both as trainers and as individuals.

Challenges with Clients

Every client is different. Some come ready to change their lives, while others struggle with self-doubt, lack of discipline, or emotional barriers. As an instructor, part of the job is to meet them where they are, to find ways to connect, and to push them without breaking their spirit. It’s a delicate balance—being both tough and compassionate, firm yet understanding. The real challenge isn’t just teaching exercises; it’s helping people believe in themselves.

Family and the Struggle for Balance

Fitness instructors give a lot of energy to their clients, and sometimes, that can leave little left for family and personal time. Early mornings, late nights, and weekends filled with training sessions mean finding balance is an ongoing challenge. Being present for loved ones while maintaining personal health and career commitments takes effort, but just like in fitness, consistency and intention make all the difference.

Running as an Escape and a Test

For many of us, running is both an escape and a challenge. It’s where we clear our minds, push our limits, and reconnect with our purpose. Whether training for a race or simply running to feel free, it’s a constant reminder that progress happens step by step. Running mirrors life as a fitness instructor—it’s about endurance, persistence, and the ability to push forward even when things get tough.

The Fitness Journey—A Lifelong Commitment

The beauty of this profession is that it’s not just about helping others transform; it’s about continually evolving ourselves. Every class taught, every workout completed, and every challenge faced contributes to growth. Fitness isn’t just about physical strength; it’s about mental resilience, emotional balance, and the ongoing pursuit of becoming the best version of ourselves.

Being a fitness instructor is a journey filled with passion, struggles, victories, and lessons. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about fitness—it’s about changing lives, including our own.

Breaking Through Mental Blocks on Your Weight Loss Journey

As a fitness Instructor/personal trainer, I truly understand you…..Weight loss isn’t just a physical battle—it’s a mental one. Many people start their journey with motivation and determination, only to find themselves hitting a wall. Whether it’s self-doubt, frustration, or emotional setbacks, overcoming mental blocks is crucial to long-term success.

Understanding Mental Blocks in Weight Loss

Mental blocks are psychological barriers that prevent progress. They can come in many forms:

• Negative self-talk – Telling yourself you’re not capable or that you always fail
• Fear of failure – Avoiding challenges because you’re afraid of not succeeding
• Emotional eating – Using food as a coping mechanism for stress, sadness, or boredom
• Perfectionism – Thinking that if you can’t do it perfectly, you shouldn’t do it at all
• Plateau frustration – Losing motivation when progress slows down

How to Overcome Mental Blocks

1. Shift Your Mindset

Instead of focusing on the number on the scale, think about what your body can do and how you feel. Celebrate non-scale victories like increased energy, better sleep, and improved endurance. Acknowledge small wins—they add up over time.

2. Challenge Negative Thoughts

Your thoughts shape your actions. If you catch yourself saying, “I’ll never lose weight,” replace it with, “I’m making progress every day.” Keep a journal to track negative thoughts and counter them with positive affirmations.

3. Set Realistic Goals

Unrealistic goals set you up for disappointment. Instead of aiming for a huge weight loss in a short time, focus on small, sustainable changes—like drinking more water, getting enough sleep, or walking 10,000 steps a day.

4. Find Healthy Coping Mechanisms

If emotional eating is a struggle, find other ways to manage emotions. Try deep breathing, journaling, exercise, or talking to a friend. Identifying triggers and addressing them without turning to food can make a huge difference.

5. Stay Consistent Through Setbacks

Setbacks are part of the journey. If you have a bad day, don’t let it spiral into a bad week. Instead of beating yourself up, acknowledge it and get back on track with your next meal or workout. Progress isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being persistent.

6. Build a Support System

Surround yourself with people who encourage and support you. Whether it’s a friend, family member, coach, or online community, having accountability can help you stay motivated. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Final Thoughts

Your weight loss journey is as much about your mindset as it is about food and exercise. Mental blocks can slow you down, but they don’t have to stop you. By shifting your thoughts, setting realistic goals, and staying consistent, you can push through challenges and reach your goals. Keep going—you’re stronger than you think!