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The Lost Puppy Look


I was walking down the halls today of the High School I work at and saw all of the soon to be freshman walking around the halls. They were holding their papers and looking up at all the room numbers trying to find where their classrooms will be. As I looked at them I smiled because they looked so lost and helpless. I thought to myself, I wonder what that feels like. Then I remembered when I first entered the fitness/athletic training industry and thought to myself, “Wow,  that really sucks for them. “. Haha!

                Whenever we enter a new unfamiliar industry we all have that same blank and scared look on our faces. Remember when you trained your first client, or when you had to eval your first injury on the field? This is something that not many veterans tend to remember.  After working in your field for a few years you begin to develop a pattern and comfort level with what you do. We forget that we were once that lost puppy wandering around the industry trying to find where we fit in. Back then everything seemed new and cool. Our minds where open and we felt we were going to take over the world.  For some, they are still wondering around looking for their place while others have found their niche and are working on mastering their skills.

                To me, the lost puppy phase must be part of the process. There are so many programs out there that offer short cuts and get rich quick schemes. However, I feel the only way to be successful in any industry is to earn your keep. You must fail, fail, and fail some more. Yes, I believe some of this can be avoided by finding a mentor or joining a mastermind group but the experience points are still necessary. No one can skip steps in any industry and if you do your skills will be subpar;  you will eventually have your cards pulled. People will see through you. A fast rise to the top is often followed by a fast drop to the bottom. Many times you may have talent that can take you to places your character is not ready for.  So do not fear the lost puppy look, do not fear failing, do not fear the process.  Embrace the process and enjoy the journey.

I also ask you not to forget the feeling of being new, don’t forget what it’s like to not know something. For those who are new in this industry there are groups like Next Generation Fit Pros that are out there to help you find your way. For those of you who are veterans, I ask that you reach out and help others who may be struggling behind you.  Picking on those who lack knowledge may be the EASY thing to do but taking time to educate them is the RIGHT thing to do.
 
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flofitnessllc.com
 

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