Introducing Annabel
Annabel Fitzsimmons is a 46-year-old, who grew up in Bermuda, England, and Canada and is currently living in Toronto with her two kids. She’s been a teacher and speaker in the fitness/wellness industry for 20 years and is also a writer and playwright. She recently helped launch MINDmgt.com, a meditation company bringing custom meditations and mindfulness to the corporate world.
What would you say has been the biggest shift in your life since turning 40?
My priorities. There have been a few major events since turning 40 — professional successes, personal challenges, and a couple of serious family health scares thrown in – all of which have served as a reminder of the impermanence of things, of how important it is to make sure to spend time with people I love, and doing work that is fulfilling and rewarding. I’ve redefined how I spend my days, both personally and professionally.
When do you feel you are most powerful?
When I’m exercising or when I’m out in nature; running, spinning, hiking, swimming or being on the water in some capacity.
What are the top 3 most important things to you right now?
- Enjoying a healthy, loving and full life with my kids.
- Spending time with family and friends.
- Doing meaningful work that has a positive impact.
How do you make sure your actions are aligned with what’s most important to you?
My journal and meditation practice are my two most trusty alignment instruments. Whether sifting through thoughts on the page or managing them through meditation – it’s impossible not to deal with what shows up. If something is out of alignment, it’s pretty difficult for me to avoid it! I’m also fortunate to be surrounded by loyal friends and incredible family who are not only a constant support but will also call me out things.
What seeds are you planting today for the future?
Every action I make today affects how my future plays out, so it’s important that I’m making choices that match up with my priorities. I’m passionate about making a positive difference in the corporate world through the work I’m doing with MINDmgt. I also continue to write and develop the creative projects I’m involved with. And personally, I’m spending time with the people I care about. I think by setting an example for my kids that I can work hard and love what I do, but also have a fulfilling family life and a supportive social network — these are the most important seeds I could plant.
What advice would you give someone who is interested in redesigning midlife?
Change can feel huge and overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to happen all at once. You can begin any shift with tiny steps, small actions, but if you never start, you’ll never know what could be. Take a look at your life and give it a true assessment. What is important to you? How do you want to spend your time? Then look at your calendar and see if the way you are currently spending your time reflects those answers. It’s not always pretty to look honestly at where we are or how things feel. But the beauty is that we have it within our power to change. And whatever it is – whether personal or professional, big or small — if it’s important to you and you want to make a change – say it, do it, go after it.
How can people connect with you and your work?
You can find me through MINDmgt.com or on Twitter and Instagram @AnnabelJFitz.
