2009 was a massive year for me – both personally and for my blog DailyMuscle.com. Many opportunities came along, and some of them really really promising - but as for how things worked out towards the end, I am very content with what I have right now - and I thank God for closing the wrong doors, and opening up the right ones for me. Here are some of my highlights for 2009;
Highlights for 2009
1. I launched my Online Community on 25 November - and it has been a great success so far, with people from all levels of experience coming together (many of them my faithful readers), to help each other out, and to be part of my dream to make this nation a healthier one.
2. I ventured into Online Personal Training - coaching individuals to their goals via an online program and support, allowing me to reach individuals I never could before. After my initial success with a handful of them, on 30 December, I launched my 1-on-1 Online Coaching Program (20 individuals, coached for 90 days - program is delivered completely online). All 20 spots were taken up within 72 hours, and I will be opening up for the next ‘intake’ in March 2010. Learn more about my Program here.
3. A significant increase of Malaysian readers on my blog - and I’ve more than doubled the total number of readers on this blog.
4. The successful launch of my online newsletter in May 2009 - with over 1,000 registered subscribers from all over the globe as of today.
5. In the media - My blog was featured in the Malay Mail, and I was also interviewed over the radio (BFM 89.9) for my unique approach to personal training and fitness. In fact, you can still listen to the interview podcast online over here (http://www.bfm.my/The-Daily-Muscle-Blogger-Training.html)
6. Income wise, I have calculated that on average, I have earned 3x more in 2009 than my previous job in the IT Industry (where I held a senior position) - fully justifying my leap from corporate Malaysia into the Fitness business. Who says that a career in Fitness doesn’t pay? ;-)
7. Though I wouldn’t really call my job right now stress-free, it is nowhere near to what I was going through in my previous career. Being able to spend more time at home in 2009 also means more time to cook my own meals and less outside food - which is why I’ve been able to bring my physique to a whole new level. I am fitter, stronger, leaner and faster than I’ve ever been before. (I cringe when I look at my 2008 photos).
8. Asia Fitness Convention 2009 - Not only did I partner with the organizers to help with publicity, I was a delegate to the Convention myself which was held in Bangkok back in November 09. Attending the convention has quantum-leaped my knowledge, skills, and passion to do what I do. I look forward to attending the 2010 Convention. You can read my review on the Convention here.
9. Again, I have witnessed that it is better to give, than to receive. Give and it will come back to you, good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over (this is a biblical principle). 2009 saw me giving more of my time, my finances, my assistance to others, without expecting anything in return. 2009 was also the year when I received more than I imagined - new friendships, awesome clients, a tremendous jump in my income, gifts, more opportunities, the list goes on. It makes all my blood sweat and tears worth every drop.
10. Greater Influence - 2009 was a year where I got to know of many fitness legends and meet influential people in the Fitness Industry (both here in Malaysia, and overseas). One of them (I am unable to disclose), will be mentoring me in the field of nutrition for 6 months sometime this year.
On a more personal side of things,
- My church, Kingdom City (formerly known as City Church KL), after 3 years, finally secured our very own building - and we moved in on the 3rd of Jan, 2010. What’s super cool about that is it is ONLY a 3 minute walk from the Fitness First at Menara Axis, PJ. How awesome is that! :D
- I attempted something I never thought I would - rock climbing (indoors). Thanks Nora! (and Nadia for coming along!).
- I have been able to spend more time at home - with family, with friends, and with my dog (he’s really happy, I can tell). More time at home also means more time to read, research, and to further improve my skills.
Ready for 2010
I can’t help but be excited to see what the new year has in store for me, and for the blog. Just a heads up on what you can expect:
- More diverse content - videos/tutorials
- Workshops & Seminars held in various locations here in KL - I want to make fitness more REAL, practical, affordable and accessible to everyone.
- More giveaways to attend the Asia Fitness Convention 2010!
- And last but not the least… the great reveal of who I am. ;-)
It’s going to be awesome - a new start, a new decade, and a new chapter for me, my blog, and my readers (you!).
Blessed New Year everyone! May God grant you all the desires of your heart this 2010.
Yours truly,
DM
P.S. - What are you hoping for this 2010, in terms of your health and fitness? New goals? Do share them below. Alternatively, you can also engage in a discussion over at my Online Community.
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Good for you. Seems like 2009 was a resounding success. May it carry on in 2010 and beyond.
“I cringe when I look at my 2008 photos”…sheesh. It can’t be that bad. I cringe looking at my 1998 photos :p
Funny you didn’t mention that you assisted in the Biggest Loser Asia thingamajig. But then… I don’t blame you.
Next round….. sailing :-D
Happy New Year DM!
New goals :
1)Start walking every morning for 30-40 min on top of going to the gym in the evening.
2)Lose another 15 kg to get off my high blood pressure medication.
3)Write an ebook on my experiences in 2009. ^.^
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