The people-pleasing fitness trainer

courage god personal growth potential relationships

Have you ever heard of a people-pleasing fitness trainer? I haven't.

Fitness trainers are supposed to push you to do things you're not strong enough for. They expect you to be uncomfortable because that's where you'll grow. 

They are basically getting paid to (temporarily) hurt people.

What if there was a trainer who said, "Do 10 burpees... iiiif you feel like it. Otherwise, just like move your feet a little bit."  The best trainers say, "I know burpees are the worst. I also know you can do this. Do them as slowly as you need to but we're DOING this."

The former cares more about you liking her than she does about your success. The latter would get paid a lot more (and keep their job). 

If you're in a position to lead people (parenting/mentoring counts!), saying things people don't like--or that they even hate--probably means you're doing your job. That doesn't give you a pass to be a jerk, so do it with compassion and love, but with firmness.

And if you’re in a position where someone is helping you grow (God counts!), stay open to their loving urges that stretch and push you—even if you feel temporary pain.

It will be well worth it.