RTDM: Lindsay Bushnell
Lindsay Bushnell
Owner/Trainer - Burn Boot Camp Elizabeth/SouthPark
Charlotte, NC
We want to get to know you! Where you came from, where you've been and how you're living your dream?
After an 18 month abusive relationship in my early 20’s, I became passionate in helping women find mental strength. Once I was introduced to Burn Boot Camp, the passions united and I've been able to use that platform to help change women's lives, inspire them to live their best life and realize that anything is possible with a shift in mindset. Becoming a business owner at 29, saying goodbye to corporate America, being a mom of 2 boys - I never thought 10 years prior to that I'd be there.
How do you define success?
I think this is something that constantly changes. Currently - my definition of success is feeling content and fulfilled with the life I'm living. This includes the happiness of my family and giving to them more than I give to others and ensuring my priorities are straight while staying true to who I am.
What did it take to make your dream happen and when did you know you had arrived?
A lot of faith in myself and support from my close circle. It was a risk to be one of the first franchisees of a business. Within a couple years, the amount of women that have been impacted by Burn - taking their own risks in their lives, becoming stronger and seeing what they are truly capable of, starting to believe in themselves - is overwhelming. Six of our clients have invested in their own Burn locations to impact women the way we have impacted them. There's no better success than that.
What are you most proud of? Go ahead, boast a little!
Honestly, being able to grow a business from nothing to a community where women can be empowered is my #1. Of course, from a business perspective I'm also proud that in our first two years we remained in the top 3 locations and last year we were the top grossing location of 150+ open locations.
What was your biggest obstacle/fear and what was your turning point?
My mind was my biggest obstacle. Learning that I can accomplish anything and the only thing ever holding me back is myself was a game changer.
What’s the best advice you’d give to a younger you?
Don't sell yourself short and don't keep negativity in your life. If anyone is judging you, not believing in you, holding you back, making you feel guilty.....they aren't true relationships that you need.
How do you stay motivated and purposeful when you feel overwhelmed?
I take a step back and engage in my outlet. For me, mine is working out and spending quality time with my family. I go to bed early and get a good night's rest. Then wake up the next day feeling rejuvenated. Trying to push through the feeling of being overwhelmed can be more detrimental to your mental health than prioritizing yourself.
What is your favorite vice/guilty pleasure/strange habit? Come on now, we all have them!
Mexican food and margaritas! I swear I'm from Central/South America in a past life.
What's the smartest investment you’ve made for yourself?
A gym membership. It turned into so much more but most importantly it was time to dedicate to myself and my health. I built my confidence, I felt good, I had energy to be a better employee/mom/wife. Even though the fees seemed expensive, it was the best thing I could spend my money on.
What’s MOST important to you right now?
My family and creating memories with them. I want to experience as much as possible with them.
Share 1-2 books you've given as gifts:
Girl Wash Your Face and The Art of Not Giving a F*CK
What have you learned to say no to?
Social plans. I always felt committed to do everything I was invited to and keep everyone happy. But I realized in the long run - I wasn't worried about what I wanted to do. True friends don't get upset if you tell them no. That was a big lesson.
What's something most people would never guess about you?
I have a terrible fear of heights.
Follow Lindsay:
Instagram: @LindsayB_Fitness
