Context: This is a message that I wrote to members when a corporation closed the gym location where I worked at
As many of you know, I will not be moving to the SE location. My journey with MUV Fitness is coming to an end now that our gym has closed, and I have decided to venture out on my own. I have wanted to work for myself for a long time, even before MUV hired me two years ago.
When I first learned about the gym closing, a wave of sadness and panic hit me. Just three weeks before, I had submitted my resignation letter for my other job, which had provided financial support for the past two years. But as those initial feelings faded, I saw this as an opportunity. By opting not to transfer, I could pursue my dream of becoming independent.
It’s undoubtedly a risky move. I will lose 100 % of my income and have to build my business from the ground up.
Several days before Monday, the day the message from MUV went out, I listened to a podcast episode. Jim Koch, the founder of Samuel Adams beer, had a successful career in the financial industry. But one day, he quit his job to start his own brewery. He shared his perspective on risk-taking: “There are risky decisions and dangerous decisions. These are two different concepts. For me, starting a brewery was risky, while staying in the financial industry was dangerous. Why was leaving my successful career dangerous? Because when I pictured my future 20 to 25 years down the road, I saw nothing. There was nothing there. So, starting my brewery was risky but not dangerous.”
Can you imagine how I felt when I said “No” to the district manager when he offered me a trainer position at the SE location?
I was making a risky but not dangerous decision.
I am deeply grateful for the connections I’ve made with each and every one of you. Your support has meant the world to all who worked in Troutdale, and I truly look forward to staying in touch!