We had the good fortune of connecting with Tanya Luna and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tanya, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?

Life balance! As a single mother, full time employment, trying to maintain self image (as my business) and playing a professional sport (Tackle football) balances has to take place.

I have learned that people MAKE the time for the things they want to. We have 24 hours in a day to live. Happiness is my answer to everything. Every decision I make in life is driven by happiness.

Some days are busy…. I lied, everyday is busy, but I would not change it for the world. I love waking up before the sun and going to bed after it goes down. My days start at 3:45 am and some days end as late as 11 pm.

 

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

I will touch a little on all.

I have been a single mother since my children were born ( That’s a whole other story) I knew that I wanted to be the mother that was present. The mother that showed up every time my kids needed me, and even if I wasn’t needed I wanted them to know I am here forever. As they were young I started a business called Thick N Fit. It was a brand I wanted to be known for “Its a state of mind not a size” I grew up a very heavy set woman, The type of woman society would look at and think she is lazy and out of shape. I was this 350 woman still running around, playing football, playing softball, being athletic. I wanted people to know that someone size does not define them.

As soon as my children were getting older and reaching preschool/ elementary age. I decided to go back to work within a school district where I worked just a classroom away from them. I spent 8 years on the same campus as my children for my children. From preschool till my children reached an age/ grade they felt they didn’t need me around as much. I decided to take the path I enjoy which is numbers/math. Long story short I still work within the school district but in a different department. The position and the people I have been surrounded with have made life better.

While doing all this I maintain my passion playing sports. From softball to football. I have been asked when I would ever stop playing. I also responded when my body is too injured to play.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

This question is perfect. I have a teammate that I now call Min Syster. ( Swedes for my sister) she is from Sweden and we met last year playing football. We are so close and she has made life so much better. During our time playing football together, we have shared so many memories.

when the season was coming to an end and she was going to be going back home to Sweden. I wanted to take her around the city I grew up in. (Oceanside) I took her around all the spots I would hang out at as a kid, all the top secret places. We also enjoy a good happy hour, shooting pool. playing darts, arcade games, anything to compete with one another. WE are so competitive with each other but in a fun way.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

First and foremost my Family! My mother, step father and my children. They are my biggest supporters. I pride myself on doing things alone but one thing is I know my family will always be there for me.

Next Football… More so my team San Diego Rebellion. The ownership, teammates, Coaches, Staff and nothing less than AMAZING. Football gives me purpose and life. I am not sure how to even put in words the feeling and love I have towards the game.

Website: sandiegorebellion.com

Instagram: @MS_TNF

Image Credits
Sports photos – Gio Nibari Vicente Other- Tanya Mercado

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