About this site
Flourish Forward is an independent publication launched in January 2026 by Annie Hays. If you subscribe today, you'll get full access to the website as well as email newsletters about new content when it's available. Your subscription makes this site possible, and allows Flourish Forward to continue to exist. Thank you!
🌿 About Annie
Where Mind, Body, and Spirit Align
For more than 30 years, I built a successful career in public accounting, including time in Big 4 firms. I was driven, disciplined, and proud of the work I did — but somewhere along the way, I realized that success on paper doesn’t always mean feeling healthy, balanced, or fulfilled.
In my 50s, I found myself drawn more and more to health and wellness. I was reading, listening to podcasts, attending conferences, and investing in learning everything I could about how our daily habits affect how we feel — physically, mentally, and emotionally. What started as personal curiosity became a personal transformation.
That journey led me to become a certified health coach and to create Authentic Health, a place where I help others build healthier lives in ways that are realistic, supportive, and sustainable.
Why I Believe in Small, Sustainable Change
My own health journey taught me that lasting change doesn’t come from extreme plans, rigid rules, or chasing perfection. It comes from small, consistent choices that fit into real life — especially in midlife, when our bodies, schedules, and priorities are changing.
I believe in meeting you where you are, not where you think you “should” be. Together, we focus on building habits that support your mind, body, and spirit, so that health becomes something that enhances your life instead of controlling it.
Who I Work With
I work with individuals — especially those in midlife — who are ready for a healthier next chapter but may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin. Many of my clients are successful, capable people who are great at taking care of everyone else, but struggle to prioritize themselves.
If you’ve ever thought:
“I know what I should be doing, so why can’t I just do it?” — you are not alone, and there is nothing wrong with you. You may simply need a different approach, one that’s based on compassion, accountability, and realistic strategies that actually fit your life.
What You’ll Find Here
This blog is an extension of how I coach — supportive, honest, and focused on progress over perfection. Here you’ll find:
- Encouragement for navigating change in midlife
- Simple wellness strategies that don’t require a complete lifestyle overhaul
- Mindset shifts that support confidence and consistency
- Real-life reflections on health, habits, and starting new chapters
My hope is that this space reminds you that it’s never too late to feel better, try something new, and invest in yourself.
Let’s Take the Next Step Together
If you’re ready to explore what better health could look like for you — in a way that feels doable and supportive — I would love to walk alongside you on that journey.
Welcome.
I’m so glad you’re here.
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