Truly living the American dream, Teresita Saechao, MS, CPT,  has rocked the fitness and nutrition world.  Learn how her charisma and knowledge of health and wellness opened many new doors and opportunities from speaking to writing to consulting and more. – Sarah

What attracted you to the field of health and wellness? The pinnacle of my attraction began with my involvement in sports during my high school years. I had a physical education teacher who had played professional basketball and he began giving me suggestions on strength training and provided me with training regimens that helped improve my performance. Afterwards, I’d show up to the dingy but functional weight room at my high school all by myself. It was during this time I also got inspired to begin designing my own workouts— without a certification at that time, of course. I started to discover that there was a vast science behind improving sports performance and living more optimally. I especially enjoy the vigorous change of pace of these fields—there is no room for complacency and it challenges my intellectual ability. Love it! There is so much to venture!! From management of chronic diseases, to helping someone make the pros! It’s endless!

Your Job Title: Health and Nutrition Consultant, Writer, Speaker and Personal Trainer

Company you are with now: FitNutricise

Website: www.fitnutricise.com

Other Social Media links you would like to include:
 – Blog: www.fitnutricisepro.wordpress.com
 – Facebook: www.facebook.com/fitnutricisefitness

A typical (or not so typical) day-in-the-work-life for you: Changes from day-to-day but a typical busy day includes attending my regular job as a wellness coordinator/specialist. In the evening, I am working with training clients, doing writing assignments, or preparing for a presentation. During lunch or late evening, if time permits, I update my social media sites and exercise for the day, or spend quality time with my family. I am flexible but also consistent with scheduling my workouts throughout the week, even when I travel. On occasion, I attend local health, nutrition and wellness events to promote my business and form new connections.

How did you get your current job in health and wellness? People were asking me if I presented, wrote, trained or taught outside of my regular job, since I was limited to what I can do for them. I began getting leads and working evenings and weekends. My client database began to grow and it took off from there.

What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way? I was born into a home with a hardworking mother who earned everything, especially coming from a foreign country. I believe I might’ve been born with the natural ability to want to help people and I found health and fitness as an avenue. I’ve always preferred to give than to receive, even until this day. I’ve definitely had to learn leadership and people skills—still learning and achieving leadership skills up until this day and probably forever. Also, from an early age, many kind people have said that I have the natural ability to teach.

What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you? Plan your future and be intentional about what you are doing. I’ve never met a successful person who people admired that miraculously fell into success. If there is such a person, he/she usually can’t relate to others well. Also, look around and be inspired. For instance, Michael Jordan was once told he didn’t possess the talent and potential to play college ball and beyond during his youth. He became intentional about being fully dedicated to developing his skill and overtime he even made it to the NBA. He is now a legend.

If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what would it be? Vacations to go explore culture, food and fitness around the world! Some places I have in mind are Spain, Greece, Brazil and Thailand. I’ve always been intrigued about how different cultures and ethnic groups eat, live and engage in fitness and health. I would definitely attend a European World Strongest Man event and learn Muay Thai in Thailand.

Sarah Koszyk, MA, RDN, is a Registered Dietitian and Sports Nutritionist specializing in Weight Management and Sports Nutrition for youth and adults. She writes articles for multiple publications, provides customized nutrition coaching, and is a brand spokesperson. She is founder of Family. Food. Fiesta.Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn.