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WOMEN WE ADMIRE SUMMER CALENBERG DESIGNING FITNESS FOR LIFE
By Michelle R. Nickens | Photography by elleBelle Photography
“Your strongest life is built through a continuous practice of designing moment by moment.” —Marcus Buckingham
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esigning a life with meaning and purpose takes initiative, passion, commitment, support and vision. Recently, I heard, “Tell me what breaks your heart, and I’ll tell you what your purpose is.” Sometimes, we recognize it right away. For others, the discovery is a journey. I’ve had friends who knew what they wanted to do at 12 years old, while others experienced something later in life that resulted in an epiphany. Patience, courage and endurance are needed not only to realize your goal but to execute it. When I met Summer Calenberg, I immediately felt inspired, energized and encouraged for our future. At 22 years old, Summer has experienced, learned and achieved more than many do in a lifetime. Just like the sun breathes life into our lives, gives us energy and fuels our strength, Summer’s attitude and approach to life are empowering, warm the heart and feed the soul. “I could not believe in or do something,” Summer said, “that didn’t bring value to my life and to other people’s lives.” Summer grew up in New York City and moved to Florida when she was 16. After living in West Palm Beach, school led her to Tallahassee and Florida State University. As an undergraduate student, she studied merchandising and then received a master’s degree in business. “I interned in New York City and went to many fitness studios. They were diverse, different and fun. Back in Tallahassee, I tried to seek out something similar, but couldn’t find a fit. I thought Tallahassee
50 tallahassee woman • august/september 2017