I am Mary Knarr, and this is my health and wellness journey. Along the way, I have my furry friends, Hannah, Azora, Hedwig, and Gretel because we all need a support system.
During the summer of 2024, I appeared to have life together. A happy family. A stable job as a learning and development manager with over a decade of experience in training, learning, and supporting high-performing teams. I thought I was healthy despite some chronic issues. Those recurring issues had to be caused by stress or age (my favorite explanation). Then the seemingly calm seas became turbulent….
Work stability crumbled with in-office mandates and relocation requirements. The stress worsened, and so did the physical ailments. Joint pain caused severe agony, preventing me from completing basic tasks. Daily, deep fatigue kept me exhausted and too tired even to lie on the couch. Concentration was impossible, and I struggled to find words or complete a thought.
My physical strains were aggravated by the stress at work. Maintaining my high-performing team’s cohesiveness, morale, and focus as we all faced the turbulence of a quickly changing job environment. I had successfully led through organizational change multiple times before. This was different. We were all facing job loss and a looming insecurity about the future.
I was scared and too tired, I thought, to go on.
But… I knew there was more; there had to be…
After doctor appointments, many tests, and much waiting, I was diagnosed with Sjogren’s Disease and Rheumatoid Arthritis. More appointments with different specialists and more medications followed. The medicines gave me more energy, and I dove into my own form of wellness. Growing herbs and plants to help inside and out through food, salves, and oils.
Throughout this journey I found space helping others through professional and life changes. Digging into my experiences managing, shaping, and leading teams, I helped leaders and professionals find balance, direction, and reignite their passions.
In all, I learned health, happiness, wholeness are not found or given. They are hard won through intention, reflection, and the combo of speaking aloud and listening. I navigated my rough waters and learned more about myself. I learned to lean into my love and passion for helping others discover their own gifts and unique qualities that help them move forward.
I offer you that space to find wholeness. Whether you have just received a new diagnosis or are dealing with a known one, I would love to speak with you.
Are you ready for the journey to a happy, whole, and healthy you?
Book time with me through the contact button.
Knarr Coaching 