The fitness industry is full of inspiring career stories, and Steve Orton, co-creator of Body Power and a key player behind PerformX, has one of the most insightful. His journey is a masterclass in resilience, adaptability, and knowing when to take risks.
On the Love Your Career Podcast, hosted by Lawrence Everest Steve shared valuable career advice for job seekers, fitness professionals, and aspiring entrepreneurs. Whether you're looking to grow your career, pivot into a new role, or start something of your own, Steve’s lessons offer powerful insights.
1. You’re Not Supposed to Have It All Figured Out
Steve’s career philosophy? Most people are winging it, and that’s okay.
💡 “The older you get, the more you realize nobody really has it all figured out.”
Instead of waiting until you feel ready for the next step, take the opportunity and figure it out as you go. Confidence grows with experience, and no one starts their career knowing everything.
2. Trust Your Gut (Even When It’s Scary)
One of Steve’s biggest career-defining moments was resigning from Body Power—a role he had invested over a decade into.
📌 He knew deep down that it was time to move on, but like many professionals, he struggled with the fear of making the wrong decision.
📌 In hindsight, he realizes gut instinct is a massive judgment call. When something feels off, trust yourself and take action.
3. Adaptability is the Key to Long-Term Success
Steve’s journey from event sales to fitness expos, to launching his own ventures highlights one major lesson:
🚀 Careers are rarely linear—learning how to adapt is more important than having a rigid plan.
📌 He stresses the importance of staying fluid, open to change, and willing to learn new skills.
4. Take Risks (Before You Feel Ready)
Steve admits that if he could go back, he’d take even more risks earlier in his career.
💡 “Confidence is one of the biggest traits to have. If you can back it up, it’s a game-changer.”
His advice to job seekers? Apply for that job. Take that interview. Start that project. You’ll never feel 100% ready—but that’s exactly why you should go for it.
5. Execution is Just as Important as the Idea
Steve learned first-hand that a great idea alone isn’t enough—it’s the execution that makes or breaks success.
📌 At Body Power, they had visionary ideas, but poor execution slowed their full potential.
📌 At PerformX, he focused on better planning, strong leadership, and making sure great ideas actually happen.
For job seekers, this means:
✔ Having a clear plan for your career moves
✔ Following through on professional development
✔ Turning ideas into action, not just concepts
6. Resilience is Built Through Setbacks
Steve has faced major career obstacles, from losing a dream opportunity in rugby due to injury to COVID-19 shutting down his business just before a sale.
📌 Instead of dwelling on failures, he sees them as necessary lessons that led him to where he is today.
His mindset? Keep pushing forward, no matter what.
💡 “I just won’t give up on it. As long as I keep working hard and staying around the right people, things will happen.”
7. Success is a Long Game (Not Instant Gratification)
Steve warns against the trap of immediate success culture.
📌 Many people expect quick promotions, six-figure salaries, or overnight business success—but in reality, meaningful careers take years of effort and patience.
💡 “Put in the work. Stay consistent. Someone will see your value and open a door for you.”
8. Surround Yourself with the Right People
One of the biggest factors in Steve’s success? The people around him.
📌 He actively seeks out mentors, colleagues, and peer groups that push him forward.
📌 He believes in honest conversations, peer-to-peer support, and helping others—which always comes back around.
💡 “Find people who challenge you, encourage you, and help you grow. The right network makes all the difference.”
9. Be Open, Honest, and Vulnerable
One of Steve’s key messages is that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
📌 He emphasizes the importance of open conversations, whether it’s about struggles at work, mental health, or personal setbacks.
💡 “Being honest about what you’re going through isn’t weak—it’s powerful. More people should do it.”
Final Thought: Stop Overthinking, Start Doing
Steve’s story proves that you don’t need to have everything mapped out—you just need to take action, learn from mistakes, and keep moving forward.
✅ Go for the opportunities that scare you.
✅ Take risks before you feel ready.
✅ Stay patient—real success takes time.
Want More Career Insights? Listen to the Full Episode! 🎧
Steve Orton’s story is packed with career wisdom, resilience, and practical advice.
📢 Tune in to the Love Your Career Podcast to hear his full story and expert insights.
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