Opinion Person Of The Month: Josh Gray

My name is Josh Gray and I am a personal trainer based out of San Diego. I'm originally from Minnesota where I was born and raised in the Twin Cities. I grew up playing a lot of different sports which influenced my eventual professional career. My primary focus was on basketball and soccer. I attended Gustavus Adolphus College where I was on the basketball team and studied Exercise Physiology.Following Gustavus, I worked at The Power House MN where I was able to refine my coaching skills. After 5 years I took a leap of faith and started my own business that I run out of DBC Fitness San Diego.

Were there people who doubted your decision to pursue the job in San Diego?

I'm sure a lot of people were surprised that I picked up and moved across the country. I had a good job and had a house in Minneapolis where everything was steady.  Switching up from that stability and becoming an entrepreneur was most likely seen as unconventional.

What fears or doubts did you have to overcome when making the move?

When I accepted the position I had never actually been to San Diego before. So not only was I going into an unfamiliar environment, I was also building a business where I had no roots. I had to walk into this setting and essential start over. Most of my family and friends were still in Minnesota so I was moving very far away from my lifelong support system.

What kept you going when things got tough?

Confidence in my professional abilities was key. I was extremely excited to officially be under the DBC umbrella and connect with not only our San Diego staff, but also our great teams in Miami and NorCal. Trusting my long-term vision kept me going through the slow seasons. As a coach my schedule can be quite varied as I navigate the busy and slow months of business.

Why does fitness matter to you beyond just the physical?

When I was younger training allowed me to establish discipline as I pursued my sports career. Part of why I named my business The Gray Way LLC was that it was more than just exercise. I aim to help my clients pursue positive habits that impact not only their fitness/sports goals, but also their family, business, and health goals. 

What’s your biggest “why” behind what you do?

Whether it is on the court, in the classroom or running a business, I've always pursued excellence. Being able to turn a passion into a profession is what most people dream of. With the belief in myself and the trust in my support system, I know I can make it work.   

How do you stay true to yourself when others don’t see your vision?

Understanding progress isn't always linear. When something doesn't go as planned it's a chance to learn and improve

What advice would you give someone who’s scared to follow their dream because of what people might think?

It's okay to acknowledge nervousness or fear. Part of why you feel that way is because you care so much about what you're pursuing. You have to be brave enough to act, and always remember your dream means more to you than anybodies doubt.

What advice do you have to anyone who is looking to move to follow their passion?

Make sure to prepare to the best of your ability, but don't wait for the perfect conditions. It's okay to not have every single detailed figured out. Just make sure to have clarity with how you're going to start your dream.