CrossFit…a word that strikes terror into the hearts of mere mortals, a word that makes people want to hide under their beds, a mental image of super humans doing things us average people will never be able to achieve. Just Google CrossFit, and you will find YouTube videos of super humans leaping, lifting, flexing, and running at a pace that seems unreal.

This was my impression of CrossFit when Brian Fitzwilliam of CrossFit Upper Limit walked into the chamber office two weeks ago. Brian explained what CrossFit actually is, and how different it is from what most people have in their minds. He went on to explain the certifications he and the other trainers have, and how they are certified beyond just minimum standards. By the time he left, I had a much different picture of CrossFit in my head, a picture so different that the next morning, my wife Elisabeth and I showed up for our first session, at 5:30 in the morning!

Those of you who know Elisabeth and I know we don’t do 5:30 in the morning, period! But there we were, in our sweat shorts, sneakers, and tops, walking into the gym at 5:30 in the morning. I was a little excited and Elisabeth was a lot concerned. We met Amy Klein, owner of CrossFit Upper Limit, who reassured us that what Brian had told us the prior day was true. After some initial formalities, into the warm up we went.

What can I say after that first workout? I survived. Did I enjoy it? Actually, yes! I am enjoying getting stronger and healthier, and knowing that I am taking some positive actions towards improving my health. Yes, modifications for the exercises were made, and yes, they still are being made. But I AM there, and that is the biggest modification of all. I challenge you readers out there who have been terrified of going to a gym for whatever reason to come to this place- it is different in the best way possible, and you will see that. Check out the website, find a session that works for you, and take the first step toward a healthier you. And you even get your first week free!

The artist, or photographer, painter, or designer most likely placed certain elements of the finished piece in specific locations on the page.  The better artists purposefully influence how you view the final image - where your eye travels -  as you take in and digest the scene.  

Today's blog entry will help you take better photographs.  Perhaps you only use the camera built into your cell phone, or you have a pocket instamatic camera. Or you've invested in something more expensive.  It's not so much about the tool in your hands, but more about how you guide that tool and what you see unfolding at the moment that you decide to click the shutter.

t’s been my pleasure to work in conjunction with several business coaches, including Gordon Parkman of Achieve Results Consulting, LLC. Gordon and other business coaches can help businesses zero in on what it is they truly love to do and help them find their niche. That’s when I take over. My job is to help businesses put into words what’s in it for the clients to work with them.