Hustle Clean Spotlight: April Anderson
April Anderson is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist in the DC metro area. She has experience working with children with a variety of speech and language disorders, although has a special interest in children with feeding disorders. April owns April Anderson Therapy, LLC and connects with families through her website (www.aprilandersontherapy.com) and social media accounts to help them navigate their feeding journeys.
April is a proud DC resident and homeowner, but is originally from Louisiana and cheers for LSU every chance she gets. In addition to running, April enjoys hanging out with her dog Penny, reading, and hanging out with friends.
How did you start running?
I was a multisport athlete growing up so running was always a part of workouts. However it wasn't until college when I started to run for myself. I used it less as a workout and more as a mental escape.
How did you hear about DRC?
A friend of mine from college ran with DRC and always told me to come out when I ran into her. However, it wasn't until I met Ashlee that I actually showed up for a run (seriously have you tried saying no to her).
What are your running goals? (You could have already achieved it and/or be thinking of another)
Right now my goal is to fall back in love with running. I realized during the pandemic that I had recently been so focused on training for races, I had forgotten how to get out for a run just for the sake of running.
Why do you #RUNDRC?
I run DRC for the community, the motivation, and all the support that is given to each runner not only during runs but during life.
Your favorite running quote
Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.
What have you changed, if anything, during the pandemic?
In order to stay balanced, I make sure to keep my planner updated. Last March (before the world started to fall apart), I left my salaried paying job and opened my own Speech & Feeding Therapy practice. On top of the stress of the pandemic, I now had to navigate being a business owner in a field where I was used to traveling around the area to see clients in their homes. I eventually transitioned to all virtual therapy sessions and had to navigate finding a work/life balance where I now worked from home. It was difficult at first not to over schedule myself just to fill the void of not much else going on and the fear of not being successful due to not working hard enough. Although the road seemed rocky at first, I am blessed that work has kept me busy and I have found stability in my business in spite of an unpredictable year.
During this past year, what have you been up to keep balance in your life?
In order to stay on track physically, I have been scheduling my workouts in advance. I started working out with fellow DRC member Leon several days a week. That gives me both accountability and motivation. I have also made changes to my diet including making my own smoothies and juices at home in order to make more balanced choices during my busy work days. Most importantly, I make sure to check in with myself at the end of each day to assess what I need physically, mentally, or emotionally.