Learn Why You Need To Put Your Own Oxygen Mask on First at our November Luncheon

By Michele Schwartz

In today’s busy world, women often do not take enough M &M’s (Moments for Me! Not the leftover candy from Halloween.) There’s only so much time in the day and most times, taking care of exterior responsibilities is more pertinent than self-care. The secret is to put your own oxygen mask on first before you try to help someone else. Just as in flying, if you don’t take care of yourself first, you’ll have less to share with your organization, clients and family.

For our November luncheon we are pleased to announce Susan Cooper MA, owner of BodyBusiness Health & Fitness Club  as our panelist.  Susan is a nationally recognized health and fitness innovator she served as the first female Chair of the Board for the Texas, Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association. She has been recognized as one of the top 10 fittest people in Austin as well as one of the area’s top women business owners.

She’s also known for spouting inspiration to her aerobics students such as, “Wait to Worry!” Now in her fifties, she’s still teaching aerobic and weight classes several times a week at both BodyBusiness locations.  I sat down with Susan to learn a little bit more about her methods, her challenges and her business.

AWC: What is the biggest change in the health/fitness industry since the Jane Fonda craze of the 80’s?
SC: The health/fitness industry has become much more sophisticated and competitive since the craze of the 80’s.  It was a lot more fun to be in business back then.  Build it and they will come was the motto of the 80’s.

AWC: What is the most difficult challenge about being a business owner?
SC: Since we are primarily a service business, people are my most difficult challenge….from finding and keeping good quality staff to providing our members with outstanding customer service.

AWC: What is the most difficult challenge about being a woman business owner?
SC: The health club industry is primarily a “good old boy network”.  Being taken seriously as a woman business owner has been challenging, but fun.  I have a very competitive spirit.

AWC: What is the biggest piece of advice you would give us as we enter into the holiday time frame?
SC: Don’t stress over the little stuff.  Focus on what is important…being with the people you love and celebrating the season.  Moderation in eating and drinking. Don’t stop exercising even if it is only for 30 minutes two times a week!

AWC: You have won many awards/accolades as a leader in your industry and in Austin.  What’s your favorite and why?
SC: I had the privilege of being elected to serve as a Board of Director on the International Health and Racquet Sports Association (IHRSA).  Working to improve our industry with some of the top operators and owners of clubs throughout the US and internationally was very educational and extremely rewarding.

Sign up to attend the November luncheon for a chance to hear more from Susan. Don’t forget our monthly luncheon is a week earlier this month to accommodate the Thanksgiving holiday.

Registrations after 5:00 p.m. on November 9, 2011 will need to add $5 to the ticket total and official online registration closes at noon on November 15th. Individuals must register online by noon on November 11, 2011 to guarantee a seat at the luncheon. Walk-ins will be admitted to the luncheon if space permits, but you’ll be charged a $5 premium so get your seat today!

See you there!