One Step (Literally!) At A Time: Meet Brenda

SUCCESS STORY: Brenda Nelson, Shakopee, MN 

Two years ago, I took a workshop from Dr. Christi during which I wrote a Life List (a.k.a., Bucket List). One of the many items I wrote was “Run a 5k,” since I had recently given up smoking and felt like I might actually be able to do that – someday – without dying. I didn’t plan on it anytime soon, though. 

But just 4 months later, I saw an ad in my local paper for a group called Moms on the Run. I discovered that the group is coach-led, teaches people to start running in a safe manner, and the 18-week program ends with a 5k. Like I said, I hadn’t planned on checking the 5k off of my Life List so soon, but when I saw that the race took place in the town I grew up in, I knew it was destined to be… so I signed up.

Eighteen weeks later, I ran my first official 5k. I was elated. 

This was not the end.

Just 9 months later, I had run seven 5ks. This was also not the end!

I decided to join the ASPIRE Success Club and declared my Bold Goal for the year to become a certified personal trainer (CPT). I completed the courses while working my beloved full-time job as an Executive Assistant. I reached my Bold Goal and officially became a CPT! 

But this was not the end either.

One of my favorite running sayings is: Your legs are not giving out, your head is giving up. Keep going. This saying reminds me just how much depends on your mental attitude. With support from people like my ASPIRE friends, I knew I could do what I set out to do. Using tools from ASPIRE, I broke my large goal up into single steps and I chose to believe. 

This story really has no end.

I was asked to coach for Moms on the Run, a position I happily accepted. To date I have run over 32 – 5ks, 6 – 10ks, 4 half-marathons and the Iron Girl. It’s crazy to think of the fun I have had, the friendships I have made, and the health benefits I have gained all from one little item on my life list and a Bold Goal.

I am thankful to Dr. Christi and the ASPIRE virtual group for all of the encouragement and support along the way. It really does take a village!

Way to go, Brenda! We’re honored to support your journey that has brought such vibrant energy into your career and life! Readers, join the success by clicking here! And tune in tomorrow for another success story that shows how passion, focus, and positivity can triumph even through the most difficult obstacles.