I’ve heard over the years that you have to be focused on the goal, but you must also be open to changes in the path. Last week I spoke with Patricia Laus for about two hours concerning the evolution of The Atlantic club.
She shared with me some interesting developments involving her main club in Manasquan, N.J. and medical fitness — to know more, stay tuned to our August 2013 issue. *Teaser
One thing that isn’t a secret, that anyone could notice if they walked through The Atlantic’s front doors, is that the entire athletic club looks like one 30-year plan. But, after speaking with Laus, I was made very aware that it was nothing of the sort.
Laus always knew she wanted to make The Atlantic a successful fitness club, but coming from the medical industry, she didn’t exactly know what would define a successful fitness club. However, she stayed open to new ideas and strategies. She allowed herself to listen to other owners and experts in the industry. She took advice and implemented it within her clubs.
When she started to see the trend of racquet sports dwindling, instead of fighting her customers’ desires, she evolved the club. When she was provided the opportunity to purchase more space for the club’s campus, she didn’t hesitate.
When she first walked into the club’s doors 34 years ago, she probably didn’t immediately see all the changes that would separate The Atlantic from the rest of her competition. But, Laus wasn’t stuck to a path. She opened herself up to new ideas and trends in the industry. She had her goal, but she wasn’t a person stuck in how to achieve the goal.
Now, more than 30 years later, The Atlantic has become one of the most reputable fitness clubs in the upper Northeast, if not the U.S. or World. Successful people don’t set themselves on a single path — they set goals and start fighting towards those goals. You won’t always be on the same path, and the path won’t always be easy, but it’s being open to new opportunities and strategies that will help you best achieve your goals.
What are you doing to achieve your goals? Have you encountered roadblocks that have stopped you? Make sure you’re open to new ideas and strategies. Network with other fitness professionals and keep an open mind on how to reach your goal.
Tyler Montgomery is the editor of Club Solutions Magazine. Contact him at tyler@clubsolutionsmagazine.com.
