Challenge Your Beliefs, Try Something New

Like many women, Linda Calisi, of Grosse Pointe Park, looked for a way to get back into shape after the birth of her second of three children. With one young child at home and a toddler taking up much of her time, Linda looked for a quick yet enjoyable way to have some fun and tone her muscles at the same time.

She began taking aerobics classes through the. She was hooked immediately, taking the class every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. More than hooked, she relied on aerobics as a release, and time just to herself. Then came the news that the instructor would be unable to teach the Wednesday class.

Like many situations that pop up in our lives, this one turned into a defining moment for Calisi.

"I got a call from the instructor who asked if I would become the teacher on Wednesday," said Calisi, who describes herself as a sort of "backstage" kind of person. "My initial reaction was, 'No!' But then Perry [her husband] said, 'You can do that!'"

Almost before she realized what her mouth was doing, she agreed, turning her no  into a yes. And it has remained a yes for the past six years.

"I never did anything like that before," said Calisi, who works as a file clerk for . "But I knew I catch on to things quickly and I knew it would be a safe atmosphere. Also, I had enough time to train."

What Calisi didn't anticipate was the bonus of increased confidence her, "yes," brought about. Simply by not giving into the, "no," she has continued to add to her capabilities -- sometimes still surprising herself.

"It has certainly brought about confidence in myself," Calisi said. "It's even helped with my parenting. I've always thought of myself as a support person and I never wanted to lead anything. Now look at me."

In addition to teaching aerobics, Calisi is often the go-to person helping create costumes for the young 's Youth on Stage participants. She also has translated her higher level of confidence to her volunteering at her children's schools.

If you have recently challenged yourself with a new sport or activity, we want to know about it. Add your comment in the box below, or e-mail the author directly.