Failing Forward | Andrea Flemming
Embracing Change and Finding Purpose in Agriculture and Fitness
Andrea Fleming’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and the power of embracing change. As a fifth-generation farmer in Southwest Minnesota, Andrea never imagined she would pivot from her childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian to becoming an entrepreneur in agriculture and fitness. Her journey is proof that sometimes the detours in life lead to exactly where we need to be, even when we don’t understand it at the time.
From an early age, Andrea had one goal in mind: to become a cow vet. She was passionate about large animal medicine and even specialized in reproduction and genetics during her studies. But after several rejections from veterinary schools, Andrea found herself at a crossroads. She was devastated, unsure of what her future held after pursuing this path for so many years. But life, as it often does, had other plans.
In the face of this setback, Andrea chose to pivot. She got a job in feed sales, but quickly realized that it wasn’t the right fit. In a time of personal struggle, she turned to fitness—something she had always disliked as a child—and began sharing her fitness journey online. To her surprise, she found joy in movement, and it wasn’t long before her passion for fitness grew. Her journey of self-discovery helped her reconnect with herself, and she soon realized that fitness and mental health could be a powerful combination that not only transformed her own life but could also benefit others in the agriculture community.
“Sometimes the detours in life lead to exactly where we need to be, even when we don’t understand it at the time.”
The growth of Andrea’s fitness business, which she calls “That Fit Advocate,” came about through a combination of trial, error, and a willingness to take risks. What started as a simple fitness journey became an avenue for Andrea to bring fitness, health, and mental wellness to an industry she loved—agriculture. Recognizing the unique physical and mental demands that agriculture workers face, she created a fitness program designed specifically for farmers, ranchers, and others in the agricultural industry. Her Six Week Fitness Foundation program focuses on building a solid fitness foundation, with an emphasis on functional movements that make everyday tasks easier and safer, from lifting equipment to pulling calves.
Andrea’s story is an inspiration for anyone facing uncertainty or major life changes. She emphasizes that it’s okay to try new things, fail, and try again. Life doesn’t always follow the path we expect, but that doesn’t mean we’re not exactly where we’re supposed to be. Andrea’s advice for those struggling to figure things out? Don’t be afraid to explore new opportunities, even if they scare you. Try different things, embrace your passions, and don’t be afraid to speak up and bring new ideas to the table. Life is too short to live with regret, and the beauty of today’s world is that we have the freedom to explore, grow, and create our own unique paths.
For Andrea, finding joy in both fitness and agriculture has been a journey of self-discovery and growth. Her story reminds us that sometimes the most unexpected setbacks can lead to the most rewarding and fulfilling journeys, and that it’s never too late to start over, try something new, and build a life that brings joy.
https://www.thatfitagvocate.com/
Fitness Coaching- https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLSVSCAVTAETH/checkout/2W6X4QXI6UHCD5KFI4NXIZE2
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