An Adultitis Fighter is someone who rallies against rules that don’t exist and engages in ruthless, senseless acts of silliness that undermine Adultitis and its unadventurous version of adulthood. Once a month, we shine a light upon the most remarkable among us, holding them up as a dazzling example of what we should strive for in this epic battle against a formidable enemy.
Jill Fleming is a joy magnet! Like all good Adultitis Fighters, she is SUCH a positive influence on all of those around her. People with Adultitis suck the life right out of you, but Jill is the exact opposite! Her free and playful spirit stands out like a rainbow in this world of gray boringness.
As a registered dietitian and wellness coach, she knows a little something about being healthy. Jill’s passion for heath and wellness is as contagious as her smile and laugh! You can’t help but want to be healthier and more intentional about fun when you’re around her, especially because she leads the way with a commitment to her own continual self-growth. Maybe best of all is Jill’s dedication to her family. She will glow and glow when talking about her three kids!
Oh, and one more thing about Adultitis Fighters: they don’t take themselves too seriously. Considering Jill recently volunteered to sit in a dunk tank for her hospital’s wellness fair, she’s got that covered too!
In recognition of their efforts, Adultitis Fighters of the Month receive a special mini-canvas hand-painted by Jason, along with a certificate of honor, a sweet patch, and other Adultitis-Fighting tools. We asked Jill some questions about how she fights the Big A and what advice she has for others…
What are some of your favorite ways to fight Adultitis?
I like to play little tricks on coworkers and my family members. Sometimes I will leave a little note or small gift (dandelions in a little vase) just to make someone smile. I love to splash in puddles and run in the rain. Last week I bought a full-sized watermelon and placed it in my friend’s freshly planted garden.
Who or what has been the greatest influence in your own fight against Adultitis?
My kids and other people’s kids. I love to make them laugh and smile. I instantly become a kid when I see one. I have learned that what other people think about me is none of my business.
What is something you loved doing as a child that you still do in some form today?
Ride a bike. I love to race other people (my teenagers) and make a game out of it. When I was younger, my two best friends and I pretended we were “Charlie’s Angels” on our bikes…out to solve a crime. It never feels like exercise, just fun!
What is your strategy for dealing with people who are obviously infected with Adultitis?
I usually just send them some love & good vibes. I know I can’t change other people, just my reaction to them. If they seem to be sucking the air out of the room, I usually excuse myself.
What advice do you have for someone who is feeling overwhelmed by Adultitis?
Life is short and we are all meant to be happy. Smile when you don’t feel like it, it changes your whole mood. Think back to a time when you were happy and think about what you were doing. Now do it again! Maybe reconnect with a childhood friend who you loved to laugh with as a kid. Debbie (my best friend since 3rd grade) can make me laugh like no one else!
Anything else you’d like to share?
The message I hope to pass on to my children: “Do what makes you happy and surround yourself with happy, childlike people who realize this amazing adventure on earth should be fun! Don’t waste what little time you have here being too serious, always wanting more than what you have. Be happy now!”
Congrats to Jill Fleming, May 2017 Adultitis Fighter of the Month. Thank you for making the world more awesome!
Congratulations, Jill!!