Cindy Sullivan

Sober living:

“The decision to give up alcohol changed every aspect of my life. The negative effects crept up on me when I was approaching 40, the constant hangovers, drinking more wine than seemed appropriate. It’s hard at times but the benefits of not drinking are above and beyond what I could have ever imagined. It’s easier to keep weight off, I’m much more clear and have way more energy, better sleep, amazing relationships and I’m not putting toxins in my body anymore.”

Letting go of perfectionism:

“I think I realize now at 53 I was the classic perfectionist, wanting to contro everything around me and constantly worrying about what others think. I’ve worked hard to overcome those feelings, although they do still show up once in a while.”

Pursue your passion:

“I left a well-paying corporate career that I was miserable at to follow my passion of working in the health and fitness industry. I took a huge risk and started my own business at 40 years old in the wellness industry as an in-home personal trainer and group fitness instructor and it has changed my life in so many positive ways!”

That mother-daughter bond:

“I love spending time with my college-age daughter, whether we are doing something fun together or just driving around chatting–I love the moments, big and small!”

Human connection:

“Because I work with senior clients, I unfortunately have lost many clients along the way. I privately trained one particular client for seven years who recently passed away in his late 80s from dementia and other complications. He made a huge and lasting impression on me. He often forgot things but he never forgot my name and insisted on exercising as much as possible. He had the most beautiful relationship with his wife of over 65 years. He taught me so much about perseverance and love.”