So I just did my first ever motivational session. The session was intended for a group of graduate high school students. To my surprise having done this feels absolutely wonderful.

When one of my fellows of JCI Urban suggested I do the motivational session, I was like “seriously, this again? What could I possibly be saying that would inspire these students? You do know I still haven’t graduated, do you?” So I would be the worst motivator ever, who is not leading by example. One of the others stepped in and said that I was “real” and that that inspires. They suggested I tell my story of how I went from being a straight A student to a yoga teacher. They were thinking out loud that I could even do a sort of a yoga session with them if that made me feel more comfortable. And then I was sold.

I decided it was time for me to face yet another fear which was triggering my inner fire. I felt very anxious and excited at the same time. What will I say to these students? How will they react? I’ve never done public speaking for a group of people I’ve never met before, let alone motivate them. What would it feel like?

It had to be done, I got the opportunity and I did it. I did what they suggested, cause I didn’t know any other way. I decided to be “real”, I told a story of how I went from a straight A student to a non-graduate, how I went from wanting to be an architect to being a yoga teacher, what life throws at you when you’ve planned to have two children and end up with none of your own. I even shared a little bit about my late niece passing. So happy she too can be a part of this.

It really did me wonders doing this session. I noticed that I could finally speak openly about my setbacks in life and in a way this was very therapeutic. People always tell me not to tell everyone your problems or your pain, cause then they will know your weakness and they can use it against you. But you know what? My weaknesses have been my biggest strengths. All my setbacks gave me new life and by sharing it, it did not make me vulnerable cause I had no room for it. I had the strength to see the good in the bad, the light in the dark.

And I’m sure people could relate to this. Life doesn’t always turn out the way you planned it. It might just be something you never expected. There will always be bumps on the road, but how we decide to deal with them is your biggest challenge, cause that will be what makes the change. That will open up the next chapter of your life. I’m still traveling… and chances are I will always be (and I’m not talking about places here).