Chapter 1: A Shift in Passion

Recently, I've come to a realization that has been difficult to digest. My enthusiasm for my professional role has diminished significantly. As a personal trainer, I spend around 35 hours a week working with clients, and while I cherish the relationships I’ve built and the progress my clients make, the excitement that once fueled my career has faded.

Initially, my drive to become a personal trainer stemmed from my love for fitness and training. I used to eagerly anticipate each workout session, meticulously planning every detail to maximize my performance. Training was the highlight of my day. Unfortunately, that thrill has been replaced with a sense of indifference; I now view training similarly to how I perceive eating. Sometimes it’s enjoyable and fulfilling, but other times it feels more like a chore.

Despite being fully aware of the numerous mental and physical health benefits associated with training—similar to the advantages of a nutritious diet—I find myself lacking the motivation to train. It pains me to admit that my passion for fitness has dwindled over the past five years. The thought of combining work with training now elicits a groan instead of excitement.

Yet, amidst this struggle, a new passion has emerged—writing. It’s an unusual but invigorating feeling to have shifted my focus. My thoughts now revolve around what article I’ll write today instead of what workout I’ll tackle. While at work, I find myself outlining articles in my mind rather than planning my training regimen.

After work, my urge is to write rather than hit the gym. Once I finish one piece, I’m already thinking about the next. Even during downtime activities like watching Netflix or scrolling through Instagram, I feel a sense of urgency about the time I could be spending on writing. It’s consumed my thoughts, and while this isn’t necessarily negative, the challenge lies in finding enough time to devote to this newfound passion.

Balancing work responsibilities, training, and personal life leaves me with maybe two hours a day to write, which isn’t sufficient. I yearn for writing to become a part of my daily life—something I can pursue anytime, anywhere, and about any subject I choose.

In the past, I successfully turned my passion into a career, so why can’t I do it again? The timing of discovering my passion for writing coinciding with the decline of my enthusiasm for training feels significant. It seems to indicate that I need to redefine myself and embrace a more authentic version of who I am.

I wear many hats: a son, a friend, a partner, and a trainer, but deep down, I know that my true essence is that of a writer. While I have enjoyed my time as a personal trainer, I recognize that my calling lies in writing.

This journey in writing is only just beginning, and I am excited to see where it leads me. I hope you’ll join me on this adventure. Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts. If you enjoyed this piece, I welcome your support through a clap, highlight, or comment.

For more of my work, feel free to explore the other articles linked below.

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Thank you once more for your support.

Until next time,

Peace and love,

James.

Chapter 2: Embracing Change

Section 2.1: Finding My Voice

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Subsection 2.1.1: The Writer Within