I Hope You Dance

Rhori & me at Dancing for Safe Haven

This weekend I attended a very special event – Dancing for Safe Haven, Nashville’s version of Dancing with the Stars which pairs local celebrities with professional dancers.  It is a fantastic event which raises money for homeless families in our area.  Not only was it a fun evening, I was awestruck by the transformation of the local celebrities from their day jobs to incredible dancers.  So how did I make my way to this event?  Let’s go back a few months.

Earlier this year, I had the pleasure of meeting News Channel 5 anchor Rhori Johnston.  I soon found out that he was participating in Dancing for Safe Haven as a local

Rhori toning his core

celebrity.  After talking with Rhori, I learned that he was doing a fast-paced cardio-centric dance which also included lifts.  I could tell he was a bit anxious – not only about pulling off the dance, but also performing in front of so many people.  After all, he is an anchorman who is accustomed to wearing a suit while sitting behind a news desk.  I am a huge supporter of people pushing themselves beyond their comfort zone and realizing their true potential.  So, I offered to help get him in shape for the event. 

Before our first workout, I attended a rehearsal with Rhori and his pro partner Anne-Marie.  From the onset, I knew we needed to hone in on his core strength and work on his balance.  We started working out twice a week in February – which gave us eight weeks to transform Rhori for the event on April 12^th.  Rhori made incredible progress after each session.  I could see his physical development as well as growth in his confidence and focus.  As the event approached, I knew Rhori was ready physically and mentally to rock this dance!  I believed in him – and I could see he believed in himself. 

Rhori rocked his dance!

During one of our first sessions, Rhori told me he wanted to participate in Dancing for Safe Haven because he watched one of his co-anchors, Vicki Yates, transform when she danced the previous year.  Rhori wanted to go through that – to push himself and to come out stronger on the other side.  I love that notion.  And I can only hope that Rhori, Vicki, Safe Haven, the pro dancers, and I can inspire you to dance (or walk, or run, or whatever pushes your limits).  Here’s my wish for you:

When you get the choice to sit it out or dance.
I hope you dance.
I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance,
Never settle for the path of least resistance
Living might mean taking chances but they're worth taking,
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance.
I hope you dance....I hope you dance.

Wherever you are in life – this day, this moment, I encourage you to take a deep breath and do something beyond your comfort zone.  Take a step that will physically and mentally transform you.  You just might come out on the other side much stronger and healthier than you ever knew you could be.  I will be here for you, just like for Rhori –educating, encouraging, and motivating you the entire time.  Go to http://www.coachdconsulting.com  to see all the ways I can help you and those you love.  Obesity is 100% preventable and this is the day to take your first (dance) step!