The origins of a Cover Model

February 26, 2013

February 25, 2013

For the past ten years I’ve been writing “Cover of a Magazine” as one of my top three goals.When I was nearly 150lbs I knew it was far-fetched. When I was pregnant three times in a row, I knew it was impossible. Yet, whenever I had time to sit in silence and write out my goals, I always longed to be on the cover of a magazine.  To me, getting a cover was an accomplishment. After all, the magazine editor felt your image would attract and encourage consumers to read.

In the past few months I was able to land the cover of Sacramento Parent and Max Sports and Fitness magazine. I was surprised and appreciative of both opportunities.  I remember not so long ago, envying the lives of my single friends. I desired their ability to travel, their freedom to enjoy weekend nights and their skill to become the best in their chosen career.

I was semi-depressed in those thoughts. I thought about the obvious benefits of being a mother, but also all the things that I sacrificed in doing so. I didn’t get an award or a raise for being able to juggle nursing, cleaning, cooking and changing diapers in a 2-hour time span. I didn’t get to ski when the snow fell or book a ticket to Mexico when a cheap Groupon landed in my inbox. My sense of self worth was no longer defined by the things I had or the things I did.

My world was redefined.

Time held more value than any amount of money. Sleep was more precious than a fun-filled evening out. A hundred daily kisses, twenty hugs and seven “I love you’s” was all the fuel I needed to keep going in a stress-filled day.

While tackling my main job as a mother, I continued to get my daily ‘me time’ in my morning runs or hourly training session as the gym. After they fell asleep, I continued my work projects and networking with other professionals in my fields. I may not wear heels anymore. Brush my hair every day….or spend recreational time reading, sleeping or training anymore –

But I was able to sustain some physical and professional goals, while maintaining my personal goals with my family.

In doing a ‘little for myself’ each day, I was able to accomplish one of my biggest professional feats. I never knew when the opportunity would present itself, but I knew I would be prepared if it did. A popular quote says that ‘Success is when Preparation Meets Opportunity’.

By remaining steadfast in my current blessings and appreciating what I had versus what I didn’t, I was able to exist more fully despite the times when I envied those who seemed to have a life filled with freedom, fun and festivity. I still envy other people who seem to ‘have it all’. Yet – after I grasp that my goals is not the same as their goals, I realize that I don’t want their life.

I want my life…with all my crazy kids, my funny husband and my stressful schedule. I want everything that comes with being a fitness role model. This includes not drinking Frappacinos, ordering fried appetizers, missing workouts and drinking every weekend.  I don’t mind not traveling. I don’t care if I lack some sleep. This is the life I chose. These are the goals I made.

And I’m living it.

I love this cover photo (for my Facebook page) created by Dane San Pedro.

3 Comments

  • Reply Erika Myers March 3, 2013 at 5:47 am

    Hi Maria- just want to write and say congratulations!! You are inspiring, sometimes I struggle with the thought of having children and how it will change my and my husband’s lives. It is nice to see the that while things change, your life is enriched by it. How as a mom, you may not be doing what you originally wanted or desired, but how you have adapted and found something even better. Congratulations and thank you for sharing.
    Erika

    • Reply Maria Kang March 7, 2013 at 6:12 am

      I was always scared to have children Erika so I’m happy to inspire you! You won’t have the same body but you will have an ‘experienced’ body that will be better than before! As long as you work for it, tame your disciplines and remain steadfast in your journey.

  • Reply Melissa Ramnarine March 23, 2013 at 5:34 pm

    Maria, you are a beautiful inspiration on everything that is so wonderful and fulfilling about being a woman. Please continue to encourage and inspire women everywhere 🙂

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