Michelle Kelly

-On choosing the right room- I can’t always make the weightlifting class I prefer. Occasionally, I attend one that’s geared toward older adults. After doing this a few times, I’ve come to the conclusion that I’d rather be the weakest, oldest person in the room than the youngest, strongest. My ego definitely prefers the second option. No question. It feels good to be the capable one. The one lifting a little more. The one who seems to have it figured out. But here’s what I’ve noticed - when...

Michelle doing yoga at the Menil in Houston, TX Lately I’ve noticed how easily I can get down on myself about the shape I’m in. Many people might roll their eyes if they heard my frustrations. I move every day. I lift weights regularly. I ski. I walk. I teach yoga and maintain my own consistent practice. Compared to most my age, not bad. But of course, I’m not comparing myself to "most my age". I’m comparing my current self to my younger self. My forearm-standing younger self. My “I’m almost...

Recently, I taught a friend how to play a game I love. She was willing to jump in and give it a try, and I was struck by her willingness to look a little clueless. Watching her reminded me that learning something new requires a bit of bravery. At the beginning, there was only her  stuff. Full on tunnel vision. She was focused entirely on her own game pieces, overwhelmed by the rules, and trying desperately not to mess up. She was in full survival mode. After a couple of games, things began to...