I’m pretty confident I’ve discovered a sure-fire way to know when it’s time to bring something to an end. What is that? Keep trying to revive the very thing God has called to completion.

My heart and soul were totally committed to health, fitness, and nutrition. I spent countless hours studying and testing to become certified in multiple disciplines. I started as a personal trainer, and over about six years, I became certified in behavior change, nutrition, and corrective exercise. I trained small groups and even invested in a gym. I was thriving in this world of fitness.

Since my medical crisis, I’ve had the opportunity to work with women in one-on-one settings to become stronger, lose weight, and improve their overall health. I’ve had numerous chats about fitness with nurses and others and have directed a few people to at-home workout programs.

When I have the opportunity to share my fitness and nutrition knowledge with others, there’s a little flame inside me that starts to burn a bit brighter. It truly excites me to hear about people discovering ways to improve their health, and I want to help them in whatever way I can.

So, I began dreaming (and scheming) of ways to throw more logs on this inner fire and get back into coaching. I sat down at my computer and headed into the back end of my website. Ideas took me from page to page, making changes and revamping what used to be into what might be better.

Yesterday, I updated the Living Well with Lana logo, changed the header on my website, and enhanced the page with the services I now offer. I even looked into new designs for the entire site.

At the end of the evening, my business plans were more aligned to what I thought they should be. So, I stepped away from my computer, satisfied that I was a bit closer to my future as a mentor and coach.

4:00 am: It’s Time

I’m now wide awake. I couldn’t stop the thoughts pinging around in my head. What if I did this on my website? Who do I know that might be interested in what I have to offer? Am I ready to go back into a gym setting to train? Maybe I could start coaching a small group again!

Here comes the moment I’ve been fighting since I returned home from the hospital.

“Lana”

“Yes, God?”

“It’s time.”

“Time for what?”

“Time to put that part of your life away. I’m creating something new for you, and until you’re obedient, I can’t move you forward.”

“I know what you’ve told me to do, but I can do both.”

“Yes, you can do both. But I’m telling you not to. It’s time. Do you trust me enough to move on?”

This stings a little

This conversation isn’t new. God and I have been discussing this for quite some time. Okay, I’ve been telling him my desires, and in his loving, utterly patient way, he’s been telling me no.

That brings me to this.

I’ve always said everything has a season, and this season has come to an end. At least, for now.

With tears rolling down my cheeks and for accountability purposes, I’m publicly announcing the end of my health and fitness career. And even though I know God’s plans are immensely better than I can ever imagine or desire, it’s tough to walk away from something I love so much.

I completely trust my Heavenly Father. So I’m taking a deep breath (well, as deep as these lungs will let me) and a giant leap of faith while letting go of one more piece of pre-transplant me.

It stings a little now, but this change is good! I believe that with all my heart.

Where will you find me next?

God has repeatedly been telling me to write.

Therefore, you’ll find me at my computer writing. (Stay tuned for more information about this.)

I’ve been given an incredible story to share. One filled with happiness, hurts, healing, amazing relationships, purpose, and oh so many miracles. I shared bits and pieces of my story through this blog, but now I’m committed to taking my writing to the next level and really stepping out of my comfort zone.

Hopefully, writing will lead to more motivational speaking opportunities someday. But until then, I’ll be content doing what I’m called to do right now. And if nothing more than personal healing comes from my writings, that’s okay, too.

God brought me to this very moment for a reason. I’ll continue following Him to discover what my new season looks like.

I hope you will come along for the journey.

Isaiah 41:10 Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand